Meningitis is a severe medical condition caused by various microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria. It can escalate into a medical emergency, demanding immediate attention. The vulnerability of newborns, infants, and young children under the age of five makes them particularly susceptible to this threat. On this World Meningitis Day, which falls on the 5th of October every year, we spoke to our expert Dr Rashmi Hegde, Medical Affairs Director, GSK, Mumbai to understand meningitis and how it affects children.
According to the World Health Organization, meningitis is a severe disease characterised by a significant risk of death and the potential for enduring severe complications (sequelae). It is an infection, either bacterial or viral, leading to inflammation of the three layers of tissue that surround the brain and spinal cord. It may also occur due to factors, such as medications, injuries, and underlying medical conditions like cancer. Dr Hegde said, “Meningitis-causing microorganisms can spread among infected children through common activities like coughing, sneezing, and sharing toys or utensils.”
Signs Of Meningitis
- High Fever: A sudden and high fever is a common early sign of meningitis in children.
- Headache: Children with meningitis may experience severe headaches.
- Stiff Neck: A stiff neck is a classic sign of meningitis. The child may have difficulty bending their neck forward.
- Vomiting: Frequent vomiting can occur with meningitis.
- Irritability: Infants and young children may become excessively fussy, irritable, or difficult to console.
- Poor Feeding: Babies may refuse to breastfeed or bottle-feed, which can be a sign of discomfort.
- Lethargy: Children with meningitis may become very lethargic and difficult to wake up.
- Seizures: Seizures can occur in some cases of meningitis.
- Photophobia: Sensitivity to light is common in children with meningitis.
- Difficulty Breathing: In severe cases, a child with meningitis may have trouble breathing.
It's important to note that the symptoms of meningitis can vary depending on the child's age, the cause of the infection, and other factors. If you suspect that your child has meningitis, seek immediate medical attention. Meningitis can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, so early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Also Read: Here’s What Everyone Needs To Know About Meningitis And How To Prevent It
Diagnosing Meningitis
Besides obtaining a comprehensive medical history, conducting a thorough physical examination, and administering blood tests, your child's physician might need to perform additional procedures to validate the presence of meningitis in your child. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, diagnosing meningitis can involve the lumbar puncture, gram stain and culture of Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF), chest X-ray, and head CT scan.
Prevention and Action
Effective prevention measures exist to combat this severe and potentially life-threatening disease. Dr Hegde noted, “Vaccination against specific organisms is a key strategy in safeguarding children's health. Also, educating children about the importance of frequent hand washing, discouraging the sharing of cups and straws, and regular disinfection of toys can further reduce the risk of infection.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms to avoid the complications.]