Overview of Meningitis

Meningitis is a serious medical condition that involves inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation is usually triggered by an infection and it can be viral, bacterial or fungal in origin. While some forms are mild and resolve without intervention others can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Understanding the signs, causes and treatments can save lives and reduce long-term complications.

Types of Meningitis

• Bacterial Meningitis: The most severe form, often caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae.
• Viral Meningitis: More common and typically less severe; caused by enteroviruses, herpes viruses and others.
• Fungal Meningitis: Rare but serious, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Often caused by Cryptococcus species.
• Parasitic and Amoebic Meningitis: Extremely rare and often deadly; caused by parasites or free-living amoebas.
• Non-infectious Meningitis: Resulting from cancer, medications or autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of Meningitis

High fever and severe headache

Stiff neck and sensitivity to light

Nausea, vomiting and confusion

Seizures or difficulty concentrating

Drowsiness, sleepiness or difficulty waking

Skin rash (especially with meningococcal meningitis)

Cold hands and feet, limb pain in children

Bulging fontanelle or irritability in infants

Causes of Meningitis

Bacterial infections like Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae

Viral infections, especially enteroviruses

Fungal spores inhaled by immunocompromised individuals

Parasitic infestations or rare amoebas from warm freshwater

Autoimmune responses or reactions to certain drugs

Complications in Meningitis

Brain swelling and increased intracranial pressure

Seizures or epilepsy

Hearing loss or vision damage

Learning difficulties or memory loss

Limb amputations (in severe meningococcal cases)

Death if not treated early

Risk Factors of Meningitis

Age (infants and young children at higher risk)

Crowded environments for example college dorms, military barracks

Weakened immune system

Skipping vaccinations

Traveling to areas with meningitis outbreaks

Skull trauma or recent brain surgery

Preventions of Meningitis

Vaccination: Meningococcal vaccine (MCV, MenB/Trumenba), Hib and pneumococcal vaccines are crucial.

Hygiene practices: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

Boiling or filtering water: Especially in regions with parasitic meningitis risks.

Prompt treatment of infections: Managing ear, sinus and respiratory infections early.