Nothing can be more frightening for our children’s wellbeing and safety than hearing the word ‘meningitis’. While it might not be discussed often, it’s essential for parents to have an understanding of what this condition entails and its risks; also known as Meningococcal Meningitis or CM, among its various varieties.
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What Is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It’s caused by various viruses or bacteria and spread through saliva, nose secretions or direct contact with someone with meningitis; rare instances have seen it spread through animal bites as well.
Common Symptoms in Children
Parents should monitor children closely for symptoms that could indicate meningitis, including fever, stiff neck, headaches, vomiting, confusion, lethargy and light sensitivity. If any of these symptoms appear, it is crucial to consult a medical doctor immediately. They can evaluate the symptoms and may recommend a CRP blood test to assist in the diagnosis.
Complications of Meningitis
Meningitis can lead to serious and long-term consequences, such as brain damage, hearing loss, seizures or even death. Therefore, it’s crucial that if you notice symptoms in your child immediately that medical assistance be sought immediately in order to minimize or avoid potential complications.
Treatment Options for Meningitis
Meningitis may be treated with either antibiotics or antiviral medication depending on its cause. When symptoms such as swelling around the brain occur, corticosteroids may be recommended by your physician in order to reduce inflammation. Furthermore, fluid therapy and oxygen therapy may also be given in order to ensure adequate oxygen levels during therapy and its effectiveness. It’s essential that all instructions from a medical provider be strictly adhered to for successful results from treatment.
How Can Your Child Contract Meningitis?
Meningitis is caused by bacteria or viruses entering the bloodstream through direct or indirect contact with infected people, or from contact with saliva, mucus or respiratory droplets containing it. Rarely it can also spread via objects like shared toys, drinking glasses or utensils contaminated with viruses or bacteria; vaccination may offer some protection but not against all forms of meningitis; birth injuries can also lead to this condition and thus birth injury claims should be filed if such occurs in relation to medical negligence or carelessness.
Who Is at Risk of Meningitis?
Meningitis can affect anyone, but certain risk factors increase the chances of contracting it. Babies and young children are especially prone to meningitis; those with compromised immune systems or people living close to those already suffering may also be susceptible. Close contact with people living with meningitis also puts one at greater risk while smoking or living in close quarters with many others can increase risks even further. There are vaccinations available against both bacterial and viral varieties of meningitis; it is wise for individuals to discuss these factors with their physician in order to determine what protection measures may be needed against contracting the condition.
Prevention of Meningitis
The best way to protect against meningitis is through vaccination, as this can help guard against certain strains of bacterial or viral meningitis. Furthermore, practicing good hygiene such as washing hands regularly, staying away from sick individuals and not sharing utensils/straws are all ways of helping reduce your risk of infection. Whenever children show any sign of illness it is crucial that they be seen by a healthcare provider promptly so that any potential complications may be reduced or avoided entirely.
Meningitis is a serious medical condition, capable of leading to long-term complications or even death, so it’s vital that people know its symptoms, seek medical help immediately if present and take preventative steps such as vaccinations and good hygiene to decrease the risk. With timely diagnosis and treatment many who experience meningitis can make a full recovery.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
