Facts about Meningitis that you need to know
Meningitis is a word that strikes fear into the hearts of many parents. Meningitis is, without doubt, a medical emergency and without immediate hospital intervention, can result in life-changing consequences, sometimes even death. If you are looking for a meningitis vaccination in Northampton, then Touchwood Pharmacy can help.
It is important to be clear about the symptoms of meningitis so that the disease can be identified quickly. It is difficult because some of the symptoms are common to other illness such as a high temperature or fever and nausea or vomiting. However, there are some key telltale signs which are specific only to meningitis and Here are the symptoms to watch out for:-
- Headache often accompanied by a stiff and painful neck
- Reaction or sensitivity to bright light or sunlight
- Sore muscles, aches and pains.
- Disorientation or mental confusion
- A mottling or blotchy effect on the skin
- A rash that does not fade under pressure, using a glass to test this is common practice
What is the treatment for meningitis?
Prompt medical intervention is essential for Meningitis which affects the membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord and requires intensive antibiotic treatment alongside intravenous fluids and hydration. Even with immediate medical treatment, high proportion of people are left with complications after they have recovered from the disease.
What causes meningitis?
Meningitis is usually bacterial in origin and there are several different types of bacteria which can cause the illness. There are also viral versions of meningitis but the bacterial disease is the most serious. Vaccination has considerably reduced the incidence of bacterial meningitis. Protection is given against the group B bacteria which is commonly responsible for infection in young children. The vaccination is given to babies and infants in their first year with a separate vaccine for the hib bacteria which is given alongside other childhood immunisations.
For more information on the meningitis vaccination speak to the team or visit our website www.touchwoodpharmacy.com
