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Bacterical Meningitis Precautions

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Viruses, parasites, fungi or bacteria can cause meningitis. Bacterial meningitis, as opposed to viral meningitis, is more serious and if left untreated, it can result in paralysis, stroke or even death. There are, however, several precautions that can be taken to guard against the transmittal of bacterial meningitis.

  1. Is Bacterial Meningitis Contagious?

    • The CDC states that bacterial meningitis can be spread from person to person through respiratory and throat secretions. Examples of how this can occur are coughing, kissing and sneezing. The CDC notes that casual contact is not enough to spread bacterial meningitis.

    Risk Factors

    • Certain risk factors exist for bacterial meningitis. The U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) report the following may increase the prevalence of bacterial meningitis: Alcohol use; diabetes; history of meningitis; infection of a heart valve; injury or trauma to the head; recent ear infection; recent pneumonia; recent upper respiratory infection; or spleen removal

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms of bacterial meningitis include high fever, headaches, and a stiff neck that prevents the ability to touch chin to chest. Older children and adults may also suffer from confusion, sleepiness and seizures. Infants and toddlers may experience nausea and vomiting as well as sever irritability. The Cleveland Clinic states the onset of symptoms occurs within 24 hours.

    Prevention

    • Keeping current with recommended immunizations is the best defense against bacterial meningitis, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccines are currently available against Hib, against some serogroups of N. meningitidis and many types of Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can all contribute to meningitis. The CDC states that all of these vaccines can offer protection against meningitis.

      The CDC recommends the meningococcal vaccine for the following groups of people: Children; everyone over age 55; people at high risk for pneumonia; college students living in dormitories; military recruits; scientists routinely exposed to meningococcal bacteria; anyone traveling to or living in a part of the world where the disease is common; anyone with a damaged or removed spleen; anyone with an immune system disorder. The CDC notes, however that those with allergies to a previous dose of meningococcal vaccine or any vaccine component should not receive the vaccination. Additionally, pregnant women and those who have ever had Guillain-Barre syndrome should consult a physician before being vaccinated.

    Other Precautions

    • Early and effective of treatment of pneumonia and ear infections caused by pneumococcus may reduce meningitis risks, according to the NIH. The agency also advises that anyone who has had close contact with any infected person should be monitored for early warning signs of bacterial meningitis.

      Proper hygiene is also a critical step in guarding against most infections. To prevent bacterial meningitis, the CDC recommends not sharing drinking glasses, utensils, tissues and lip balms. Hands should be washed well and frequently with soap and water.

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