Meningitis
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes around your brain and spinal cord. It’s often caused by infections, with viral and bacterial infections being the most common. Some forms can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact.
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
Viral meningitis symptoms
- In babies: Poor appetite, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, breathing issues.
- In adults: Fever, headache, stiff neck, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, confusion.
Bacterial meningitis symptoms
- Fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, chills, confusion, purple skin patches, and extreme tiredness. Symptoms appear suddenly and require urgent treatment.
What are the causes of meningitis
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis (common in Ghana), Listeria, and Staphylococcus aureus.
- Viruses: Coxsackievirus, influenza, mumps, measles, herpes, and HIV.
- Fungi: Cryptococcus (from bird droppings), Blastomyces, and Histoplasma (found in soil).
How is meningitis treated?
- Bacterial meningitis: Needs urgent hospital treatment with IV antibiotics and steroids.
- Viral meningitis: Often goes away on its own, but some cases need antivirals.
- Fungal meningitis: Treated with antifungal medications.
- Chronic meningitis: Caused by infections or autoimmune diseases and treated accordingly.
Can meningitis be prevented?
Yes! Vaccines protect against some bacterial types, like Neisseria meningitidis.
Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent severe cases.