Meningitis infection can be both a bacterial and a viral infection. Meningitis infection is the inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord and Meningitis is caused by germs that survive in the nasopharynx (the rear of the nose and throat).
With meningitis the germs spread by droplet infection and rarely survive outside of the human body although many people are carriers of this germ without realising it. The Meningitis can be caused by viral (Aseptic Meningitis), or bacterial (Spinal Meningitis) infection. Viral Meningitis becomes more virulent as it manifests and spreads, it is important to remember that although the infection cannot be treated with an antibiotic, but is not life threatening.
Bacterial Meningitis is imperative that it is diagnosed early as this can be treated with antibiotics and most people fully recover, however if not treated early enough then complications can lead to permanant deafness, brain damage or death.
Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis Infection
- Fever (39oC or greater)
- Sweating profusely
- Chills
- Violent headache
- Irritability
- Eyes ultra sensitive to light
- Stiffness in the neck
- Vomiting
- Confusion and lethargy
- May have sore throat
- May have Septicaemia rash that does not disappear under a glass.
Should your child show some of the above signs and symptoms of Meningitis, and you are worried about his/her reactions then take the child to hospital immediately
Incubation Period for Meningitis Infection
There are different incubation periods for Meningitis infection depending on which strain you have contracted.
The Incubation Period for Meningococcal meningitis is 2-10 days
The Incubation Period for Hemophilus meningitis is ranging from 2-4 days.
The Incubation Period for most organisms causing meningitis infection is 2 days to 2 weeks.
Treatment for Meningitis Infection
If you suspect meningitis and the child is feverish, vomiting, drowsy and lethargic then do not hesitate…Call an Ambulance Immediately !!. Remember that Meningitis infection means hospitalisation, so the earlier that you contact the experts the better.
Meningitis can be fatal, but if treated early most sufferers completely recover and early diagnosis and treatment of any strain of Meningitis really is Vital to your chances of pulling through !!
Never put off that phone call, it could be very costly.
Vaccinations for Meningitis Infection
Vaccinations against Meningitis infection are strongly advised as the consequences of contracting any strain of the Meningitis infection are so severe and can be administered to all people aged 24 or under and in particular children and students.
The vaccinations are readily available at your local health centres. The vaccinations against Meningitis infection are excellent, but are considered to be more affective and less traumatic in the HIB form. The HIB form of the vaccine also protects against whooping cough and tetanus.