Context
Health officials in England have increased efforts to contain a meningitis outbreak in the areas around Reading and Oxfordshire after one student died and two others fell seriously ill.
About Meningitis
- Meningitis causes inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
- The disease can become life-threatening and may lead to serious neurological complications if treatment is delayed.
- Bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites can cause meningitis, while injuries, cancers and certain drugs account for a few cases.
- The infection spreads mainly through respiratory droplets released during coughing and sneezing.
- Common symptoms include fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting and confusion.
- Severe cases may cause seizures, coma, hearing or vision loss and weakness in the limbs.
- Bacterial meningitis is the most severe form and requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
- Viral and bacterial meningitis often show similar symptoms, though their severity and treatment differ.
- Vaccination offers the best protection against common forms of bacterial meningitis.
- Health authorities also provide preventive antibiotics to close contacts of infected individuals to reduce transmission.
- Viral meningitis usually resolves on its own without specific treatment.
