Meningitis occurs when the tissues around the spinal cord and brain become inflamed, according to the World Health Organization. Meningitis is a serious disease that can result in long-term health complications or death, especially if left untreated.
Parasites, fungi, viruses and bacteria can cause meningitis. Although rare, medications, cancer and injuries can also cause meningitis. Depending on what causes a case of meningitis, the case can be contagious or non-contagious.
The most common type of meningitis is viral or aseptic meningitis, which has a lower mortality rate than other forms of meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is another common cause of meningitis and has a mortality rate of about 10-15% in the U.S., meaning that about 1 in 10 individuals who develop the disease will die. However, it is important to note that the mortality rate of meningitis varies significantly based on factors such as patient age, the pathogen causing the disease, immunocompromised status and geographic region.
Does Meningitis Only Affect College-Aged People?
A common misconception is that meningitis tends to affect young adults who are in college or are about to go to college. However, meningitis can affect anyone at any age anywhere.
If you are living with HIV or if you have a compromised immune system, you may be more likely to get certain types of meningitis. Bacterial meningitis may be more easily spread in:
- Crowded events or mass gatherings
- Settings with unhoused people or refugees
- Mining locations
- Jails and prisons
- Military camps
- High-traffic border areas
Spread of Meningitis
For types of meningitis that are contagious, they are normally spread through throat secretions or respiratory droplets. If a pregnant woman has bacterial meningitis, it could be spread to her child around the time when she gives birth.
Symptoms
While meningitis symptoms can vary widely, common symptoms may include:
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Fever
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Confusion
- Light sensitivity
Less-common symptoms may include:
- Skin rash
- Limb weakness
- Seizures
- Coma
For infants, symptoms may include:
- Bulging of the soft spot on their head
- Reduced ability to feed
- Constant, weak cry
- Irritability
- Being less active or being difficult to wake up
Complications
Meningitis complications can include:
- Difficulties with communication, memory, language, speech or vision
- Weak limbs
- Seizures
- Hearing loss
- Brain abscess
- Stroke
- Death
How Can I Protect Myself Against Meningitis?
The best way to protect yourself against bacterial meningitis is by getting vaccinated. There are multiple effective vaccines that are part of the routine childhood immunization schedule that provide enduring protection from the following forms of bacterial meningitis:
- Meningococcus
- Pneumococcus
- Haemophilus influenzae type B
If you are around someone with viral or bacterial meningitis, you should:
- Avoid sharing toothbrushes, utensils and cups
- Avoid close or direct contact
- Wash your hands regularly and every time before you eat
If you are around someone with bacterial meningitis, you can also talk to your primary care provider about taking antibiotics.
UofL Physicians – Primary Care is here for you if you need to get vaccinated from meningitis. If you need a primary care provider, you can call 502-588-4343.
The UofL Physicians – Vaccine & International Travel Center provides meningitis vaccines. To make an appointment or for more information, call 502-852-6464.
What If I May Have Meningitis?
If you believe you could have meningitis, it is a medical emergency. Dial 911 or visit an emergency department.
After you arrive at the hospital, a medical provider may administer a lumbar puncture in your spine to examine your cerebrospinal fluid, which will be tested to see if you have meningitis and what type it is. The type of meningitis will determine the treatments you have and whether you can receive antibiotics.
UofL Health’s seven emergency departments are ready to treat you with the most quality, innovative and timely care if you may have meningitis.
