What is the cause of meningococcal meningitis?
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. It can lead to serious blood infections. When the linings of the brain and spinal cord become infected, it is called meningitis. The disease strikes quickly and can have serious complications, including death.
Who is at risk for meningococcal meningitis?
Anyone can get meningococcal disease but certain people are at increased risk, including: Infants younger than 1 year old. Adolescents and young adults age 16 through 23 years old. College students who live in residence halls.
Is meningococcal meningitis curable?
Doctors treat meningococcal disease with a number of antibiotics. It is important that treatment start as soon as possible. If a doctor suspects meningococcal disease, they will give the person antibiotics right away.
What is the treatment for viral meningitis?
Treatment of mild cases of viral meningitis usually includes: Over-the-counter pain medications to help reduce fever and relieve body aches Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce swelling in the brain, and an anticonvulsant medication to control seizures.
What are the signs and symptoms of meningitis?
The swelling from meningitis typically triggers signs and symptoms such as headache, fever and a stiff neck. Most cases of meningitis in the United States are caused by a viral infection, but bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections are other causes. Some cases of meningitis improve without treatment in a few weeks.
What is the main cause of meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges. The meninges are the three membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can occur when fluid surrounding the meninges becomes infected. The most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections.
What is the abbreviation for meningitis?
Abbreviations Meningitis=infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord Meningococcemia= meningococcal bloodstream infection Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine=MPSV4 Meningococcal conjugate vaccine=MenACWY