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Bacterial Meningitis Fact Sheet

Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by bacteria and spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets from the nose and throat of infected individuals. Common symptoms include sudden fever, intense headache, nausea, stiff neck, and rash. People who had direct contact with an infected individual may require follow up with a physician if symptoms develop. With antibiotic treatment, infected individuals are no longer contagious after 24 hours. Children should receive recommended immunizations and practice good hygiene to prevent bacterial meningitis.

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4K views1 page

Bacterial Meningitis Fact Sheet

Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by bacteria and spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets from the nose and throat of infected individuals. Common symptoms include sudden fever, intense headache, nausea, stiff neck, and rash. People who had direct contact with an infected individual may require follow up with a physician if symptoms develop. With antibiotic treatment, infected individuals are no longer contagious after 24 hours. Children should receive recommended immunizations and practice good hygiene to prevent bacterial meningitis.

Uploaded by

Kyle Sparks
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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FACT SHEET

BACTERIAL MENINGITIS
What is Bacterial
Meningitis?

How is it spread?

Bacterial Meningitis is disease caused by bacteria that result in an


infection of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord. It can be
caused by any bacteria, but the three most common agents are:
1. Haemophilus influenza (HIB)
2. Neisseria meningitis
3. Streptococcus pneumonia
The way it spreads is different with each type of bacteria. Some
forms of Bacterial Meningitis are contagious; some are not. Usually it
is spread by direct contact including respiratory droplets from the nose
and throat (kissing, coughing, sharing food, and drinks). Most people
will not become seriously ill. Close contacts with prolonged exposure
are more likely to become very ill.

What is the incubation


period?

It takes about 1-10 days after contact for symptoms of full body
infection to occur.

What are the early signs?

Early signs vary but may include sudden fever, intense headache,
nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, and possible rash.

What about contacts?

Follow-up may be required only for intimate and family contacts. If


symptoms appear, parents should contact their family physician.
People who may have a depressed immune system should also check
with their physician.

How long is the person


contagious?

As long as the bacteria are present in the nose/throat. No longer


contagious after 24 hours of appropriate antibiotic treatment.

When is it OK to return to
school/childcare?

It is OK to return after you have recovered, with antibiotic treatment,


and with your physicians OK.

Other Important Information

Children under 5 should receive HIB & PCV immunizations.


Practice good handwashing and other hygiene measures.
Remind children not to share food/drink and/or eating utensils,
water bottles, etc.
Disinfection: routine sanitary practices.
Children ages 11-19 years should receive a Menactra/Meningitis
(MCV4) immunization. Especially recommended for all students
prior to college entry.

This fact sheet is not intended to replace the advice of your physician. Parents should contact their healthcare provider if
they have concerns regarding their childs health. If you have general questions, you may contact a Kalamazoo County
nurse at 373-5264 or 373-5267.

Rev. 12/15

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