Bacterial Meningitis
Meningitis that is caused by bacteria has been identified as the most fatal, in that if left untreated it can lead to death within 24 and 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Urgent medical attention is essential.
If treated early, a good recovery is possible however many people can be left with debilitating after-effects such as :
- Deafness
- Brain damage
- Learning disabilities
- Loss of limbs
Carriage
Many of the bacteria known to cause meningitis will be carried in our noses, throats and mouths in a region known as the nasopharynx and oropharynx. Most of the time, we will not be aware of their presence and there will be no side effects. Occasionally, these bacteria cross the blood-brain barrier and invade the meninges where they multiply and cause meningitis.
Causes
Bacterial meningitis can be caused by several bacterial species including:
- Neisseria meningitidis - the meningococcus
- Streptococcus pneumoniae - the pneumococcus
- Haemophilus influenzae - also known as Hib
- Streptococcus agalactiae - group B strep, GBS
It is important to know the specific organism causing meningitis as treatment and prevention methods will be specific to that organism. For prevention and treatment measures to be effective, there is a need for good surveillance systems, diagnostic tools and research on meningitis. Click below to find out more about the different bacterial-causing meningitis.
![Image de [i]Haemophilus influenzae[/i] au microscope](/sites/default/files/styles/feature_box/public/2021-03/hib_0.png?itok=BZjlPhQ4)
