* Fever and /or vomiting
* Severe headache
* Rash (anywhere on the body)
* Stiff neck
* Dislike of bright lights
* Very sleepy / vacant / difficult to wake
* Confused / delirious
* Seizures (fits)
2007-06-24 21:34:53
·
answer #1
·
answered by Runa 7
·
0⤊
0⤋
Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the central nervous system, known collectively as the meninges. It may develop due to a variety of causes, including infective agents, physical injury, cancer, or certain drugs. Meningitis is a serious condition owing to the proximity of the location to the brain and spinal cord. The potential for serious damage to motor control, thought processes, or even death warrants prompt medical attention.
Most cases of meningitis are caused by microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites, that spread into the blood and into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).[1]. Non-infectious causes include cancers, systemic lupus erythematosus and certain drugs. Although the most common cause of meningitis is viral, bacterial meningitis -- the second most frequent cause -- can be serious and life-threatening. Anyone suspected of having meningitis should have prompt medical evaluation.
Meningitis can affect anyone in any age group, from the newborn to the elderly.
The "Meningitis Belt" is an area in sub-Saharan Africa which stretches from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east in which large epidemics of meningococcal meningitis occur (this largely coincides with the Sahel region). It contains an estimated total population of 300 million people. The largest epidemic outbreak was in 1996, when over 250,000 cases occurred and 25,000 people died as a consequence of the disease.
2007-06-28 01:42:16
·
answer #2
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
Meningitis is a very deadly diseases that is contagious. My nephew had it at 6 months and is severely handicapped, his siblings got it later but their mother got them to the doctor immediately so no lasting effect. A sudden fever is a first sign. If you had it you might already be dead or having convulsions.
2007-06-25 03:07:36
·
answer #3
·
answered by shipwreck 7
·
0⤊
0⤋