Face to Face with Meningitis
Meningitis
My son was two months old when he contracted meningitis. We were living in West Africa where medical facilities are limited. Fortunately, he was quickly diagnosed and made a swift recovery.
In 2004 the United Kingdom issued new information regarding meningitis.
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. There are two types: viral and bacterial. My son had the milder form which is viral and his body managed to fight off the disease without medical treatment.
There are several different types of bacteria that can cause meningitis. In the United Kingdom meningococcal bacteria is the most common cause.
In some cases a condition called septicaemia happens, which is blood poisoning. Some meningitis sufferers can contract both, and others can carry both separately.
The meningococcal bacteria can be carried in the throat and mouth without making the carrier ill. The bacteria can be transmitted by coughing, kissing and sneezing.
Both septicaemia and meningitis are extremely rare. Statistics show that there are only 2500 cases every year.
Meningitis can affect anyone but it is children under five who are mainly affected, and sadly some will die.
Symptoms
Early signs include fever and vomiting. My son showed both symptoms. He was lethargic and vomited several times. He seemed to be unable to open his eyes and moaned quite a lot. I knew instantly something was wrong when I picked him up and he was hot and clammy. I later found out from a doctor friend of mine that if a child spikes a temperature of 37.5 are higher then to seek medical help immediately. My son’s temperature was recorded as 37.9.