Meningitis

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How is it spread?

Viral meningitis lasts up to 2 weeks and it is spread by coughing, sneezing, talking, laughing, and contact with objects that have the bacteria on them. The bacteria don’t always cause meningitis, however.

Can it be prevented?

No, but if the symptoms occur, a doctor will take spinal fluid for the diagnosis. He or she may also ask you if you have a history of this disease, and may give you a basic physical.

Is there a cure?

 There is a limited variety of medicines that would be safe to use in order to treat the symptoms, but doctors have found that Menactra eases the symptoms and supposedly gives a long-lasting immunity to the disease. If you are diagnosed do not share food, utensils, or clothes, avoid other sick people, and get plenty of sleep.

What are the symptoms?

      Symptoms include the inflammation of the membrane covering the spine and brain, deafness, vision problems, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and states of irritability. In infants the symptoms can include yellowed skin, extreme high temperatures, and a high-pitched cry. In teens the most common complaints are headaches, sensitivity to light and a stiff neck.      

Interesting Information

Meningitis is a disease that is particularly potent to kids, teens, infants and college kids.

It can cause seizures and learning disabilities.