Bacterial meningitis

Bacterial meningitis (say “meh-nun-JY-tus”) is an infection of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms usually develop all of a sudden.

Bacterial meningitis can be serious. It can injure your child’s brain and can cause death. Your child may need special care, such as being in the intensive care unit (ICU). This may worry you. But the hospital staff understands this. They will explain what happens and will answer your questions.

Symptoms of bacterial meningitis most often develop all of a sudden. Babies may be cranky, cry when moved, and arch their back. Young children may have a severe headache and refuse to eat. An older child will also have a stiff neck. Fever is common at all ages.

Doctors use a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to test for bacterial meningitis. A sample of fluid is removed from around the spine. It's then tested to see if it contains bacteria that cause the illness. You may also need other tests, such as blood tests, a CT scan, or an MRI.

Treatment takes place in the hospital. Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to treat infection.
• Medicines to treat other symptoms, such as fever and muscle aches, pressure on the brain, and seizures, if they occur.
• Help with breathing. Your child may have a tube down the throat that is attached to a machine (ventilator).
• Fluids or nutrition through a vein (I.V.).
• Supportive care. Your child will be watched carefully to help prevent serious problems such as hearing loss, seizures, and brain damage.

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Give your child an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), for pain or fever. Do not use ibuprofen if your child is less than 6 months old unless the doctor gave you instructions to use it. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Make sure your child gets plenty of rest.
• Be sure that anyone who has come into close contact with your child during this illness calls a doctor if they feel sick.