What is the most common meningitis in children?
The most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children, Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib), has been almost eliminated due to a vaccine that was developed at Boston Children’s in 1990.
What is the most common complication of bacterial meningitis in a child?
Some of the most common complications associated with meningitis are: hearing loss, which may be partial or total – people who have had meningitis will usually have a hearing test after a few weeks to check for any problems. recurrent seizures (epilepsy) problems with memory and concentration.
How does a child get bacterial meningitis?
Causes of Meningitis in Children Older infants and children usually develop infection through contact with respiratory secretions (such as saliva or mucus from the nose) containing the bacteria that cause meningitis.
What are the 6 bacteria that cause meningitis?
Bacterial meningitis can be caused by a range of bacteria, including :
- Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae) type B (Hib)
- Neisseria meningitides (N. meningitides)
- Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumonia)
- Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes.
- Group B Streptococcus.
Can a child survive meningitis?
Out of 1,000 live births, about 0.1 to 0.4 neonates (a baby less than 28 days old) get meningitis, estimates a 2017 review. It’s a serious condition, but 90 percent of these babies survive.
What is the main cause of meningitis in children?
Meningitis is most often caused by a bacterial or viral infection that moves into the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the fluid that protects and cushions the brain and spinal cord. A fungus or parasite may also cause meningitis. This is more common only in children with a weak immune system.
How is meningitis treated kids?
Treatment. Acute bacterial meningitis requires immediate hospital-based treatment and antibiotics. Secondary symptoms such as brain swelling, shock and seizures will require other medications and intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral meningitis — its symptoms should clear up in a few weeks.
Can a vaccinated child get meningitis?
Because the vaccines do not protect against all causes of meningitis, it is still possible that someone could receive the vaccine and still get meningitis from a different strain not protected by the vaccine. But the risk of contracting meningococcal meningitis is significantly lower after the vaccine.