Meningitis (sometimes called spinal meningitis) is an infection of the delicate linings (the meninges) that cover the brain and of the fluid contained within these linings (the Cerebrospinal fluid or CSF). It can be caused by bacteria or by any of a number of viruses. Bacterial meningitis is a very serious and potentially lethal condition, which requires urgent medical attention whereas viral meningitis is a self, limited illness that will get better by itself.
In children, bacterial meningitis is usually caused by one of 3 bacteria: Haemophilus influenza (Hib), the pneumococcus, and the meningococcus. Each of these bacteria can also cause other serious infections such as septicaemia (blood poisoning), pneumonia, septic arthritis, etc. Hib infection generally occurs in children less that 5 years of age, thus in school children it is the meningococcus and the pneumococcus, which are the most common culprits. Depending on the circumstances of each individual case, an antibiotic (Rifampicin) may be prescribed to close contacts to prevent the spread of further infection. The decision as to whether this should be done is best left to the Public Health Physician managing the case.
The early symptoms of meningitis are the same regardless of whether it is caused by a bacteria (the more serious form that needs urgent medical attention), or by a virus (the type that will get better by itself). Symptoms often develop quite suddenly with fever, chills, severe headache and vomiting. The head hurts on movement and any attempt to bend the neck is very uncomfortable. The patient may complain of light hurting their eyes. A rash often accompanies meningococcal infection.
If your child has been in close contact with a child with meningococcal infection, the Area Medical Officer may recommend that he/she take a short course of an antibiotic (Rifampicin) to reduce the risk of infection. Children less than 5 years of age who have not received the Hib vaccine and who have been in close contact with a case of Hib infection may need to take Rifampicin. Contact your own Doctor to discuss these issues.
Let your Doctor know that the child has been In contact with meningitis.
If your child develops any illness with fever within the next 3 weeks, bring them to the Doctor for examination and remind the Doctor that there was meningitis in the school.
If, at any stage your child develops any of the symptoms of meningitis contact your Doctor immediately. If there is any delay in reaching your Doctor, bring them to the Casualty Department of the nearest Children's hospital