Bacterial Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the membrane and fluid around the brain and spinal cord. It is a very serious illness. Bacterial meningitis strikes very quickly and spreads rapidly throughout the body. It can cause very severe long-term effects. It can even be fatal. So it is vital to act quickly and get medical help if you think you or your child is infected.

Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency that requires treatment right away.

Symptoms of Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis must be treated as soon as possible. Call 911 or emergency services right away if you or your child has any of these symptoms:

• Fever over 100.5°F with any of the following:

  • Severe headache that doesn’t go away

  • Stiff neck (arching back or neck in infants)

  • Nausea or vomiting with headache

  • Sleepiness; difficulty waking up

  • Irritability; dislike of being handled

  • Bruise-like rash or splotchy skin

  • Sensitivity to light

Note: Have any newborn or infant checked by a doctor right away if he or she is very irritable, very sleepy, or eats poorly.

Diagnosing Meningitis

Tests that may be done to diagnose bacterial meningitis include:

• Spinal tap: Taking a sample of spinal fluid from the lower back to check for signs of meningitis. This is the definitive test for meningitis.

• Throat culture: Taking a swab of throat secretions to check for bacteria.

• Imaging tests: These may include x-rays and a computed tomography (CT) scan to look for areas of swelling and inflammation.

Treating Bacterial Meningitis

A child or adult with bacterial meningitis will be kept in the hospital. He or she will be given antibiotics through an intravenous (IV) line, a tube that puts medication directly into the blood. Your doctor may recommend treatment for meningitis complications, such as removing infected fluid in the sinuses or around the brain.

Prevention

To help prevent bacterial meningitis:

• Make sure your child has had all routine childhood immunizations.

• Ask your doctor if you or your child should receive a flu shot or vaccinations against pneumonia or meningitis.

• Call your doctor right away if you or your child has been around anyone who has become ill with meningitis.