Transcript Meningitis
Meningitis What is Meningitis? • Inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord • Organisms such as bacteria or viruses can infect the layers (meninges) Causes of Meningitis • Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. • Viral meningitis less severe and is resolve without treatment • Bacterial meningitis is severe and may result in: – Brain damage – Hearing loss – Learning disability – Death Anthrax Where did this disease come from? • • • • Was first known as “Man disease” Recognize in the 19TH Century Small outbreaks in Paris and Geneva In the US there was a wide spread epidemic Signs and symptoms • Meningitis and the flu have similar symptoms Symptom Rash Diagnosing Meningitis • Spinal tap is performed • needle is inserted into an area in the lower back • Identification of the type of bacteria • is important for selection of correct antibiotics. Is meningitis contagious? • Yes, some forms of viral and bacterial meningitis are contagious. • Is spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions for example, coughing and kissing. • Sharing drinks or cigarettes Who is at risk? • Infants, young children and the elderly • college freshmen who live in dormitories • People in the same household or day-care center • Military Treatment for viral meningitis Viral meningitis No specific treatment Patients recover completely on their own Bed rest is recommended, fluids, and medicine to relive fever and headache Treatment for bacterial meningitis cont.. Fatal if not treated in time Pt. must be hospitalized Be given a numerous of antibiotics Ampicillin, cefotaxime,or corticosteroids Overall, if depends what kind of bacteria a PT. has. Human Cadaver Amputation Prevention Vaccines – HIB haemophilus influenza • Infants and children – Pneumoccal Vaccine • Elderly – Neisseria meningitidis & Streptococcus Pneumoniae • Recommended for college students living in dormitories Cost of Vaccines The cost of vaccines are costly but are worth it. •Range is from $64.00 – $75.00 Meningitis Presentation by: • Joey Aguirre • Liz Marquez • Cindy Martinez • Lorraine Gomez