Meningitis

Question 1

What is bacterial meningitis?

Answer 1

A life-threatening infection of the meninges (membrane of the brain), most commonly affecting babies and children, but can occur at any age.

Question 2

How is bacterial meningitis transmitted?

Answer 2

Through close contact, respiratory droplets, or direct contact with respiratory secretions.

Question 3

Which type of bacterial meningitis has higher complication rates?

Answer 3

Pneumococcal meningitis (~30%) has more complications than meningococcal meningitis (~7%).

Question 4

What are the red flag symptoms of bacterial meningitis?

Answer 4

Fever

Headache

Neck stiffness

Altered consciousness or cognition (e.g., confusion, delirium)

Question 5

What skin sign strongly suggests meningococcal disease?

Answer 5

A non-blanching purpuric rash or a rapidly spreading petechial rash.

Question 6

Name some specific signs of acute bacterial meningitis.

Answer 6

Neck stiffness
Altered mental state
Non-blanching rash
Back rigidity
Bulging fontanelle (under 2 years)
Photophobia
Kernig’s & Brudzinski’s signs
Seizures
Focal neurological deficits
Coma

Question 7

What medication is given for meningitis?

Answer 7

Benzylpenicilin and ceftriaxone - both single IV bose.