Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, primarily caused by viral and bacterial infections.
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Viral meningitis is usually less severe, while the bacterial form poses a higher risk of complications and death. The most common bacterial causes include meningococcal and pneumococcal infections, explained by pediatric infectious disease specialist Cristiana Meirelles, the medical manager at Beep Saúde.
Although meningitis is serious, it’s largely preventable through vaccination. Based on this consensus, Beep, Brazil’s largest home healthcare company, expects an 18% increase in demand for meningitis vaccines this year compared to the same period last year, with an expected 77,000 orders.
Causes and Symptoms of Meningitis
Cristiana clarifies, “The transmission of viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis mainly occurs through the fecal-oral route, meaning contact with surfaces, food, or water contaminated with the feces of an ill person, and also through respiratory routes via coughing, sneezing, and saliva from an infected individual who carries the bacteria but doesn’t always show symptoms of the disease.”
Complaints may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, body rashes, neck stiffness, confusion, photophobia, and seizures. Therefore, in the case of any symptom or exposure to a risk factor, seeking medical consultation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment.
Preventing and Treating Meningitis
The expert, like other healthcare professionals, emphasizes that the most effective way to prevent meningitis and other central nervous system infections is through vaccinations. Immunization is possible even in adulthood. “Vaccines are recommended for all children and adolescents. For adults and seniors, we recommend vaccination in risky conditions, such as during outbreaks of the disease or travel to risk areas,” informs Cristiana.
Regarding the best treatment, Cristiana explains that bacterial meningitis is treated with hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics, and additional measures such as blood pressure control, prevention of bleeding, and hydration may be necessary. “The type of antibiotic and the duration of treatment depend on which bacteria is causing the meningitis,” she emphasizes.
“On the other hand, viral meningitis usually doesn’t have a specific treatment (antiviral drugs) in most cases. We implement supportive measures, including rest, oral or intravenous hydration, and medication for fever and pain,” she adds.
