Meningitis is a serious illness that can affect the brain and spinal cord. Many people wonder if meningitis is curable and how it can be treated.
This article will answer that question and provide information to our friends at Tirta about meningitis prevention. Understanding whether meningitis is curable is an important step in grasping the appropriate medical actions.
Is Meningitis Curable?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. This condition can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
The prognosis or chance of recovery from meningitis greatly depends on the cause and the speed of the treatment administered. The treatment for meningitis depends on the type of infection causing it, whether bacterial or viral.
1. Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis (BM) is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and proper therapy to reduce morbidity and mortality. BM therapy involves the use of corticosteroid antibiotics and other supportive measures.
Here is a detailed explanation of BM therapy based on the sources provided. Empirical antibiotic selection should be based on local epidemiology, patient age, and underlying risk factors.
Antibiotics should be administered promptly, especially if there are signs of septic shock. Here are some empirical antibiotic choices based on patient characteristics:
- Neonates: Ampicillin plus cefotaxime
- Ages 2 months-18 years: Ceftriaxone or cefotaxime, with vancomycin added
- Ages 18-50 years: Ceftriaxone, with vancomycin added
- Ages >50 years: Vancomycin plus ampicillin plus ceftriaxone
- Immunocompromised condition: Vancomycin plus ampicillin plus cefepime or meropenem
- Cranial base fracture: Vancomycin plus cefotaxime or ceftriaxone
- Post-traumatic or post-surgical brain injury: Vancomycin plus ceftazidime, cefepime, or meropenem
Dexamethasone is often used as an adjunct therapy in bacterial meningitis, particularly in cases of pneumococcal meningitis.
Giving dexamethasone along with the first dose of antibiotics can decrease inflammation in the space around the brain, decrease the chances of cerebral edema, blood flow problems in the brain, increased pressure inside the skull, nerve damage, and inflammation of blood vessels.
Patients with bacterial meningitis are given Dexamethasone for 4 days. They receive an intravenous dose of 10 mg every 6 hours. However, some experts recommend discontinuing dexamethasone if culture results show the cause of BM is not H. influenzae or S. pneumoniae.
2. Viral Meningitis
Treatment for viral meningitis is primarily supportive, particularly in cases of enterovirus. Some patients may require hospitalization for fluid administration and pain relief, while others can be treated at home.
Exceptions include meningitis from varicella and herpes simplex virus, which, if severe, are treated with antivirals such as acyclovir.
Meningitis Prevention
It’s important to take steps to protect yourself from meningitis-causing bacteria and viruses.
Meningitis prevention involves steps to reduce the risk of infection and its spread. Here are some meningitis prevention methods you need to know:
1. Meningitis Vaccination
Meningitis vaccination is a primary preventive measure against meningococcal disease. This vaccination protects against Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which can cause meningococcal meningitis.
2. Good Hygiene
Washing hands properly and regularly can prevent the spread of germs that cause meningitis. Teach kids to wash hands before eating, after using the toilet, in public places, or around animals.
It is recommended not to share drinks, food, eating utensils, toothbrushes, lip balms, or straws with others. Also, avoid sharing these items with children and teenagers.
3. Maintaining General Health
Maintaining the immune system with sufficient rest, regular exercise, and consuming a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is highly recommended.
4. Covering Mouth When Coughing or Sneezing
Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis.
5. Special Prevention for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are advised to cook meat well and avoid unpasteurized cheese to reduce the risk of Listeria infection, which can cause meningitis in unborn babies.
Meningitis Vaccine for Umrah, Hajj, and International Travel
When planning travel for Umrah or Hajj, as well as other international trips, do not forget the importance of health protection through vaccination.
At Tirta Medical Centre (TMC), we understand your need for maximum protection from meningitis, a potentially very dangerous disease. Therefore, we offer various types of meningitis vaccines suitable for your specific travel needs.
1. Menivax Meningitis Vaccine
Specifically prepared for those going on Hajj or Umrah. This vaccine meets health requirements for travel to the holy lands and helps you perform your pilgrimage peacefully without worrying about the risk of meningitis.
2. Formening Meningitis Vaccine
Ideal for those who need extra protection during international travel. The Formening vaccine provides additional security from the risk of meningitis infection in various countries.
3. Menactra Meningitis Vaccine
Menactra is the best solution for those who want comprehensive protection from meningitis. Suitable for all types of international travel, this vaccine offers maximum security against meningitis.
Every recipient of the meningitis vaccine at TMC will receive a yellow book, an internationally accepted official document that serves as proof of vaccination.
This yellow book not only meets the requirements for pilgrimage travel to the holy lands but is also important for other international travel needs.
Do not delay, protect yourself and your family with a meningitis vaccine from Tirta Medical Centre. Contact us immediately for more information on pricing and how to book the vaccine. Prioritize your safety and comfort in worship and international travel.
References:
- Meisadona G., Soebroto A. D., & Estiasari R. (2015). Diagnosis and Management of Bacterial Meningitis. Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, RSUPN Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Indonesia. Accessed in 2024: https://media.neliti.com/media/publications/400571-diagnosis-dan-tatalaksana-meningitis-bak-97140094.pdf
- AMA Journal of Ethics. Accessed in 2024. Diagnosis and Treatment of Viral Meningitis: https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/diagnosis-and-treatment-viral-meningitis/2007-07
- Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2024. Meningitis – Diagnosis and treatment: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meningitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350514
- NHS. Accessed in 2024. Meningitis – Treatment: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/treatment/
- CDC. Accessed in 2024. About Meningococcal Disease | Meningococcal: https://www.cdc.gov/meningococcal/about/index.html
