What is Meningitis?

May 30, 2023

Authorities in US and Mexico recently appealed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency over a fungal meningitis outbreak.

About Meningitis:

Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called meninges.
The most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections. Other causes may include:
- cancer
- fungi
- drug-induced reactions
Transmission: Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through sneezing and coughing.
Symptoms:
- Common symptoms of meningitis are neck stiffness, fever, confusion or altered mental status, headaches, nausea and vomiting.
- Less frequent symptoms are seizures, coma and neurological deficits (for example hearing or vision loss, cognitive impairment, or weakness of the limbs).
- Types of meningitis caused by viruses or bacteria can have similar symptoms. Symptoms may be stronger in some types of meningitis than in others and require different treatment.
Treatment and Prevention:
- Meningitis is a medical emergency. It is potentially fatal within 24 hours and requires urgent medical attention.
- Meningitis can vary in severity, appropriate treatment and care depending on the cause. Meningitis caused by bacteria requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
- Vaccines offer the best protection against common types of bacterial meningitis.
- Antibiotics for close contacts of those with meningococcal disease, when given promptly, decreases the risk of transmission.