H&S 7-4

03/07

Abstract

Meningitis

Prepared by: Youmasu Siewe, Ph.D., MPH

Health Specialist

301 HES, Oklahoma State University

Cooperative Extension Service – FCS

Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078-6141

(405) 744-9929 or 744-6824

References: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases; http://www.meningococcaldisease.com; http://www.partnersforimmunization.orghttp://www.immunizationinfo.org; http://www.mayoclinic.com

IMPLICATIONS FOR COOPERATIVE EXTENSION. With the recent cases of meningitis on the OSU Stillwater campus, it could be necessary for the larger Oklahoma Community and the Extension Educator in particular to become aware of the disease, and be able to educate extension clientele on how it can be prevented. This article will discuss bacterial or meningococcal meningitis.

What is meningitis? It is a severe infection of the lining (meninges) and fluid around the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by different types of organisms, but most commonly, by bacteria and viruses. The type of meningitis caused by a virus is more common, less serious and often resolves without specific treatment. The type of meningitis caused by bacteria is less common but causes a more serious disease. It may also cause complications such as: brain damage, hearing loss, learning disability and other problems of the central nervous system.

Who can get meningitis? Anyone, but it is more common in infants and children. For some adolescents, such as first year college students living in dormitories, there is an increased risk of meningitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 2,500 people in the country are infected with meningitis every year, and about 300 die from the disease. Other persons at increased risk include household or classroom contacts of a person known to have the disease. People who have suppressed immune systems or those traveling to parts of the world where meningococcal meningitis is common can be at increased risk.

Meningitis (continued)

How common is meningitis in Oklahoma? According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, 33 cases of meningitis were reported in 2006. Of this number over 50% occurred in the months of February and March.

How is meningitis spread? Meningococcal – the bacteria that causes meningitis is only spread by close contact with saliva or secretions from the nose or the throat of an infected person. Some persons may carry meningococcal in their nose and throat and never have any illness. Meningitis is not transmitted by breathing the same air such as in a room with an infected person. It is also not transmitted in water supplies, swimming pools, or by casual contact in dining rooms, bars or restrooms.

What is the treatment for meningitis and who should get it? Early treatment with penicillin and certain related antibiotics is very effective in treating meningitis.

Is there a vaccine to prevent meningitis and who should get it? The CDC recommends a new vaccine to prevent meningococcal meningitis in people 2 years and older and all first year college students living in dormitories. The vaccine only prevents four types of bacteria meningitis. Contact your health care provider for your specific needs.

How do you know if you have meningitis? Symptoms of meningitis may appear 2 to 10 days after initial exposure and include high fever; headache, vomiting, stiff neck and rash. Other symptoms include confusion, seizures and rash around the armpit and groin. A spinal tap and laboratory testing are also used to confirm the disease. About 10-15% of those who develop the disease may die, in spite of treatment. For those who survive, complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, kidney failure and other complications involving the nervous system may occur - particularly if treatment is delayed.

Should people who have been in contact with a diagnosed case of meningococcal meningitis be preventively treated? Only people in very close contact with ill persons have a higher risk of the disease and should be considered for preventive treatment. These include household members, intimate contacts, day-care center classmates, some health-care workers and persons with direct contact to secretions from the nose or throat of infected persons (e.g., via kissing).

What are some of the steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of contracting meningitis? Cigarette smokers and children exposed to cigarette smoke have an increased risk of developing meningitis. Other specific measures to prevent meningitis include: quit smoking, avoid upper respiratory infections by receiving influenza vaccine when appropriate, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wash hands frequently. Other non-specific measures include eating a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, and living a healthy lifestyle to improve overall health and ability to resist disease.