If you have ever been sick with the flu, then you know how miserable it can make you feel. The fever, the headaches and stiff muscles are all symptoms of that dreaded flu virus. But the symptoms can also be signs of something far more serious.
These are the signs of bacterial meningitis. Just the thought of this tiny bacterium can send some parents and adults into a tail spin as they reach out for their bottle of anti bacterial hand sanitizer. They have good reason to fear these bacteria because it can cause major damage if left untreated.
Bacterial meningitis is caused by three types of harmful bacteria. There is the Haemophilus influenzae type B, the Neisseria menintidis and the Streptococcus pneumonae. All three can be devastating to the human body and can cause serious ramifications if not treated in time. The typical wait time for the symptoms to appear can be from several hours up to two days.
This bacterial disease is spread through close quarters with someone who is infected. It is not spread by casual contact or by breathing in the same area. It requires an actual exchange of bodily fluids in order to take root within the unsuspecting body.
The main victims are those who are in a highly contagious area, or children and infants. The symptoms can mimic a typical flu bacterium or pneumonia. Usually there is a high fever, a headache and a stiff neck. The only way to accurately diagnose this infection is through a spinal tap.
A long hypodermic needle is inserted into the spinal column in the lower back. The spinal fluid is then sent to a lab for confirmation that the bacteria are present. The procedure can be very painful, but is absolutely essential for determining whether or not the patient does have meningitis.
Thankfully, the United States does not often have outbreaks of bacterial meningitis. Most children are given vaccinations to help prevent this deadly disease. It is suggested that if you are traveling to an area that is prone to meningitis, then you should get a booster shot to prevent the Haemophilus influenzae type B strain of this harmful bacteria.
Should you be infected you will need to stay away from others and take a round of antibiotics to kill these harmful bacteria. If you practice a little bit of foresight, then you may be able to save yourself from suffering, or even dying.
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