Why is meningitis a public health issue?

meningitidis. Meningococcal disease – infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis – usually causes meningitis or meningococcemia (blood stream infection) which can develop very rapidly. It is considered a very serious public health emergency and is fatal in about one in 10 patients.

Why is the meningitis important?

Bacterial meningitis is serious and can be fatal within days without prompt antibiotic treatment. Delayed treatment increases the risk of permanent brain damage or death. It’s also important to talk to your doctor if a family member or someone you live or work with has meningitis.

Why is meningitis such a serious disease?

Bacterial meningitis can be life threatening. The infection can cause the tissues around the brain to swell. This in turn interferes with blood flow and can result in paralysis or even stroke.

Which is a significant risk factor for meningitis?

Risk factors for meningitis include the following: Extremes of age (< 5 or >60 years) Diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney failure, adrenal insufficiency, hypoparathyroidism, or cystic fibrosis. Immunosuppression, which increases the risk of opportunistic infections and acute bacterial meningitis.

Is meningitis a disease or infection?

Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. A bacterial or viral infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord usually causes the swelling. However, injuries, cancer, certain drugs, and other types of infections also can cause meningitis.

Does meningitis go away?

Treatment. In most cases, there is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. Most people who get mild viral meningitis usually recover completely in 7 to 10 days without treatment. Antiviral medicine may help people with meningitis caused by viruses such as herpesvirus and influenza.