Meningococcal meningitis

It is a bacterial infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.

The bacterium is transmitted through droplets of respiratory secretions, expelled by coughing or sneezing. Contact with saliva when sharing kisses or dishes can also transmit it.

The most frequent symptoms are a stiff neck, fever, headache, confusion, nausea and/or vomiting, sensitivity to light, irritability or rapid breathing.

Diagnosis is established by clinical questioning, physical examination, and by performing a lumbar puncture to extract cerebrospinal fluid for analysis. Other tests that may be necessary: blood tests, cultures, chest X-ray and/or brain scan.

In case of suspicion, the patient should be isolated (respiratory isolation) to prevent infection. It will be treated with intravenous antibiotics, which may be associated with corticosteroids.

If the patient has been in contact with an infected person, preventive antibiotic treatment may be necessary. It is possible to prevent infection with vaccines administered at an early age.

If you have any of these symptoms or suspect this condition, go to the nearest emergency room for evaluation.