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What is meningitis?
Meningitis (men-in-jite-iss) is an infection of the meninges (men-in-jeez)the lining covering the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when bacteria (germs) or a virus enters the spinal fluid. The bacteria or virus may be from an ear infection, a respiratory infection, or an infected wound. A child may have flu or cold-like symptoms before the infection. The infection can spread by hand-to-mouth contact and by droplets from the nose and mouth getting into the air, such as by coughing or sneezing. Meningitis is diagnosed by testing and culturing the spinal fluid. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) will be done to obtain the spinal fluid. Usually it takes 48 hours for the lab to grow the cultures and find out what is causing the illness. The signs in children older than 2 years may include: fever headache vomiting confusion increased sleepiness neck stiffness or pain seizures rash
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Your child will be in isolation precautions for at least 24 hours after the antibiotics are started and will not be able to leave the room. This is to prevent spreading germs to other children. Hospital workers entering the room wear gloves, a mask, and a gown. Balancing body fluids is important so that your child does not get too much or too little. IV fluids and oral feedings are carefully measured, along with urine and stool output. At times, limiting fluids may be necessary. Blood tests may be done to help measure body fluid levels. Nurses watch vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure) and neurological signs (level of consciousness, pupil changes, physical activity, and strength). A monitor may be used to help watch your child for any changes.
The state of Minnesota requires Childrens Hospitals and Clinics to report some types of bacterial meningitis to the health department. Your doctor will let you know if follow-up care is necessary for your household or day care. Good handwashing can prevent the spread of infection at home and at day care. Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and pneumococcal vaccines are available to prevent two types of bacterial meningitis. You may wish to speak to your doctor about vaccinating your other young children.
Questions?
This sheet is not specific to your child, but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the clinic. For more reading material about this and other health topics, please call or visit the Family Resource Center library, or visit our Web site: www.childrensmn.org.
Childrens Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota Patient/Family Education 2525 Chicago Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55404 12/09 Copyright
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