What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges (the lining of the brain). It may be caused by several kinds of bacteria or viruses.

Meningitis may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, dizziness, sensitivity to light, fever, difficulty walking, and stiffness of the neck.

Meningitis is often very frightening to parents. Please ask your doctor and nurse any questions or concerns that you may have.

How is it diagnosed?

In order to diagnose this disease, your child will have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). This is done by inserting a needle in the lower back to get spinal fluid. The spinal fluid is sent to the laboratory to determine whether your child has meningitis and what type: bacterial or viral.

How is meningitis treated?

Your child will be isolated for at least 24 hours. He'll receive IV (intravenous) antibiotics and fluids. She may not be allowed to eat the first day and will slowly begin to eat as her condition improves. If your child has a fever, he may receive medicine for it.

The nurse will check your child's consciousness (how her eyes respond to light, her ability to speak, walk, swallow, move arms and legs) and vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate).

How long will my child be hospitalized?

Your child will probably be hospitalized for 10 to 14 days for bacterial infection. Viral meningitis patients may be discharged earlier, as soon as three days. Additional lab tests may be ordered to determine his/her progress.

Other children who have been in contact with your child may need preventive medication. Adult family members or day care personnel may also need medication. Please tell your nurse and/or doctor if your child attends day care or school.

Most children recover from meningitis without any problems. Some children may have hearing loss with certain types of meningitis. Your doctor may order a hearing test while your child is in the hospital, or after he/she is discharged.

When should I call the doctor?

After your child goes home from the hospital, call the doctor if your child develops the following symptoms:

• Fever higher than 101° F
• Crying a lot without being able to be comforted
• Headache or neck pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Visual changes (sensitivity to light)
• Rhythmic movements in arms and legs

From the Parent/Patient Education Series
Holmes Regional Medical Center Pediatric Services