Meningitis

Question 1

What are the social determinants of health that influence meningitis?

Answer 1

• Living in close proximity/overcrowded environments
• Close contact with infected person
• Sharing spit
• Poor hygiene practices
• Exposure to tobacco smoking
• Travel
• Level of health literacy
• Access to immunisations

Question 2

What are meninges?

Answer 2

3 membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord

Question 3

What are the names of the 3 layers of meninges?

Answer 3

Dura mater
Arachnoid mater
Pia mater

Question 4

What are the roles of the meninges?

Answer 4

Protect the spinal cord from mechanical trauma

Support the blood vessels

AND form a continuous cavity so that cerebrospinal fluid can move through

Question 5

What is meningitis?

Answer 5

The inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes (meninges) covering your brain and spinal cord

Question 6

When does meningitis occur?

Answer 6

When the fluid surrounding the meninges becomes infected

Question 7

What are some causes of the inflammation of the meninges?

Answer 7

Bacteria
Viruses
Fungus
Zoonoses
Parasites
Medications

Question 8

What are the tests and investigations needed for meningitis?

Answer 8

Blood tests
Blood culture
Lumbar puncture
CT scan

Question 9

What are some initial warning symptoms of meningitis in adults?

Answer 9

Body ache/muscle pain in limbs & joints

Shivering and cold hands & feet

Bluish lips and pale skin

High fever