Bacterial meningitis is infection of the brain and spinal cord. The membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, which are called the meninges, become inflamed and infected. The infection is caused by bacteria. It is a life-threatening illness that requires immediate medical treatment.
Bacterial meningitis affects more men than women. At highest risk are older adults, children under age 5, and people with chronic illnesses.
Another name for this infection is spinal meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis is caused when blood from another infected part of the body carries bacteria to the brain and spinal cord. Bacteria can also enter the brain when you have an ear or sinus infection, or after a skull fracture.
Some forms of bacterial meningitis can be spread from person to person. The bacteria can be spread by close contact with lung and throat secretions--for example, coughing or kissing. None of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as the viruses that cause the common cold or flu. They are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the same air as the person with meningitis.
Symptoms may include:
Children and older adults may not have the typical symptoms of bacterial meningitis.
Your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine you. You may have the following tests:
If your health care provider suspects you have bacterial meningitis, you will stay in the hospital for treatment with antibiotics. Treatment must begin right away. You will receive antibiotics intravenously (by vein) for 7 to 10 days or longer.
If bacterial meningitis is treated right away, chances of recovery are good. However, in some cases, brain damage or death can occur.
Follow the treatment plan prescribed by your health care provider. Be sure you finish all medicines and keep your follow-up appointment.
A shot of the meningococcal vaccine can prevent some forms of meningitis. Routine vaccination with this vaccine is recommended for children aged 11 to 12. It is also recommended for the following groups if they have not yet had the shot:
Other adolescents and college students and people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) may also want to ask their provider about getting the meningitis shot.
People who have had close or prolonged contact with someone who has meningitis should tell their health care provider as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours. Close contact includes living in the same house, going to the same day care center, or having close personal contact, such as you might have with a boyfriend or girlfriend. If you have had close exposure to meningitis, your provider may give you antibiotics to help prevent you from getting the disease.
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File BRN3402F.HTM Release 9.0/2006
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