What is Meningitis?
Meninges are membranes around components of the Central Nervous System (brain and spinal cord). An infection in the cerebral fluid causes inflammation of the Meninges which is otherwise known as Meningitis.
Types of Meningitis:
Viral Meningitis:
- Most common form of Meningitis
- Spreads through coughing, sneezing, or poor hygiene
- Mosquitoes and Ticks are rarely vectors for this disease
- Full recovery is normal
Bacterial Meningitis:
- Rare but fatal
- Spreads through respiratory and throat secretions (eg. coughing and kissing)
Symptoms of Meningitis:
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Confusion
Tests Required for Accurate Diagnosis:
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): Injecting a needle into the spine and extracting spinal fluid to test for infection or other changes that could help detect Meningitis
- Blood Test: Blood is extracted and tested for Meningitis using a centrifuge.
- Computed Tomography Scan (CT Scan): Uses a computer and radiation to display images of the body such as muscles, bones, and organs.
Treatment of Meningitis:
Intravenous antibiotics – Used to treat Bacterial Meningitis. In some cases, Dexamethasone may be given to reduce the inflammatory response caused by bacteria.
