Is All Meningitis Contagious?

Meningitis is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. Normally, it is a result of bacteria or viruses that are spread through sneezing, coughing, kissing, or sharing eating utensils, a toothbrush, or a cigarette. However, it can be contracted from other forms, such as other medications and illnesses. Meningitis is life-threatening and professional medical attention must be sought immediately.

Illness and Meningitis

• Meningitis can affect people with a weakened immune system. People suffering from AIDS, diabetes and other illnesses that weaken the immune system have a higher risk factor.

Medications and Meningitis

• Immunosuppresant drugs used by people for illnesses that weaken the immune system, such as AIDS and diabetes, create a higher risk factor for meningitis.

Allergies and Meningitis

• Noninfectious causes, such as drug allergies; inflammatory diseases, such as lupus; and some types of cancer create a higher risk factor.

Symptoms of Meningitis

• Symptoms of meningitis include:

  • High fever
  • Severe headache
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • seizures
  • Sleepiness
  • Stiff neck
  • Sensitivity to light

  Early signs include:

  • Leg pain
  • Pale skin
  • Ice cold feet and hands

  Signs in newborns:

  • Excessive sleepiness
  • Constant crying
  • Poor feeding
  • Bludgee in the soft spot
  • Stiffness in body or neck

Preventing Meningitis

• Help to protect yourself from meningitis by:
  • Washing your hands frequently.
  • Stay healthy.
  • Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.

Complications of Meningitis

• Complications of meningitis include:

  • Seizures
  • Hearing loss
  • blindness
  • Loss of speech
  • Learning disabilities
  • Behavior problems
  • Brain damage
  • Paralysis
  • Kidney failure
  • Adrenal gland failure

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