Today April 24, we join the rest of the world to mark World Meningitis Day that helps to raise awareness about meningitis. Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges (the three membranes that covers the brain and spinal cord). It is a medical emergency and is often mistaken for other diseases such as malaria, the flu, or even Covid-19. It can be fatal within a few hours and cause lifelong disability. This year’s theme is “Take Action #DefeatMeningitis.
CAUSES OF MENINGITIS.
Meningitis usually results from a bacterial or viral infection that begins somewhere else in your body, like your ears, sinuses, or throat.
Less common causes of meningitis include autoimmune disorders, Cancer medications, Syphilis, and Tuberculosis
TYPES OF MENINGITIS.
- Bacterial meningitis
- Viral meningitis
- Fungi Meningitis
- Parasitic Meningitis
- Amoebic Meningitis
- Non-infectious meningitis
SYMPTOMS OF MENINGITIS.
Meningitis symptoms can develop within hours or days and may include:
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Fever
- Headache
- Numbness in the face
- Sensitivity to light
- Upset stomach or vomiting.
- Seizures
- Skin rash (with meningococcal meningitis)
RISK FACTORS FOR MENINGITIS.
Meningitis can strike anyone, but studies have shown that these age groups are at higher risk
- Young babies
- Older adults
- People with weak immune systems
- People without a spleen or a spleen that does not work the way it should.
PREVENTION OF MENINGITIS.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect against certain types of meningitis. Vaccination against certain bacteria such as Pneumococcus, Haemophilus Influenza type B (Hib) can protect against the causes of meningitis.
The following healthy habits would also help protect from meningitis:
- Washing of the hands especially before and after eating, using the toilet, or when you are in public places.
- Avoid sharing items like toothbrushes, eating utensils, or lipstick.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Eat a healthy diet, get plenty of exercises, and get plenty of rest.
- If you are pregnant, eat properly cooked food and avoid foods made from unpasteurized milk.
Getting a MetroHealth HMO insurance plan gives access to receiving various types of immunisation without having to pay out of pocket at the various points of access. This is in line with the WHO resolution committed to eliminating bacterial meningitis epidemics; reducing cases of vaccine-preventable bacterial meningitis by 50% and deaths by 70%; reducing disability and improving the quality of life for meningitis survivors.
