Content
Meningitis C, also known as meningococcal meningitis, is a type of bacterial meningitis caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis which can be fatal if not treated properly. This infection can happen at any age, but it is more common in children under 5 years old.
The symptoms of meningitis C are very similar to those of the flu and, therefore, the diagnosis can be more difficult, delaying the start of treatment and increasing the likelihood of developing sequelae, such as deafness, amputation and brain injuries.
Therefore, it is recommended that whenever there is a suspicion of meningitis C, a general practitioner is consulted to assess the symptoms and carry out the necessary tests, in order to confirm the diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Main symptoms
The most characteristic symptom of meningitis C is the stiff neck that results in difficulty in resting the chin against the chest. In addition, symptoms of meningitis C are:
- High fever;
- Headache;
- Large or small spots on the skin;
- Mental confusion;
- Sore throat;
- Vomiting;
- Nausea;
- Somnolence;
- Difficulty waking up;
- Joint pain;
- Irritation;
- Photophobia;
- Tiredness;
- Lack of appetite.
When realizing these symptoms it is important to refer the person to the hospital as soon as possible so that the treatment can be started and the chances of complications decrease.
The diagnosis of meningitis is made based on the observation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person and is confirmed by the examination of lumbar puncture, which consists of laboratory analysis of a small amount of fluid that is removed from the spinal cord.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The initial diagnosis of meningitis C is made by the infectologist or neurologist based on the analysis of symptoms. Confirmation, however, can only be done through laboratory tests, such as blood count, lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or CSF analysis, in which the presence of Neisseria meningitidis.
After carrying out the exam, the doctor will be able to confirm the disease and, thus, develop an intervention plan as quickly as possible in order to avoid possible complications. See what are the consequences of meningitis.
How it is transmitted and how to avoid it
Transmission of meningitis C occurs through direct contact with the respiratory secretions or feces of a person infected by the bacteriaNeisseria meningitidis. Thus, coughing, sneezing, and saliva are ways of transmitting the bacteria, and it is recommended to avoid sharing cutlery, glasses and clothing with infected people.
The easiest and most effective way to prevent meningitis is through vaccination, which can be administered from 3 months of age. The vaccine for this type of meningitis is called the Meningococcal C Vaccine and is available at health centers. This vaccine lasts between 1 and 2 years and, therefore, booster should be taken in children up to 4 years old and in adolescents between 12 and 13 years old. Learn more about the vaccine that protects meningitis.
However, the habit of washing your hands frequently, as well as avoiding contact with apparently sick people also helps to decrease the likelihood of infection.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for meningitis C is done in hospital and with the use of antibiotics, since the transmission of this bacteria to other people is very easy, being necessary to keep the person in isolation until it does not represent a risk of contagion. In addition, hospitalization is important for the medical team to monitor the patient's health and thus avoid complications. See what are the consequences of meningitis.
The best way to prevent meningitis C is through vaccination, which can be done after 3 months of life, and should be reinforced in children up to 4 years old and in adolescents between 12 and 13 years old. Learn more about vaccines that protect against meningitis.