Is bacterial meningitis bacterial or viral?
Is bacterial meningitis bacterial or viral?
Meningococcal disease is any illness caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are serious and include meningitis and bloodstream infections (septicemia).
What kind of infection is viral meningitis?
Viral meningitis is an infection of the membranes (linings) that cover the brain and spinal cord. A variety of viruses can cause meningitis, including those that cause gastroenteritis, measles, mumps, chicken pox and herpes. Viral meningitis is rarely serious, although symptoms may be severe.
What’s worse viral or bacterial meningitis?
Viral meningitis is more common, but bacterial meningitis is more serious. It can lead to brain damage, paralysis, or stroke. In some cases, it can be fatal. Many different types of bacteria can cause meningitis.
Do you need antibiotics for upper respiratory infection?
Antibiotics are rarely needed to treat upper respiratory infections and generally should be avoided unless the doctor suspects a bacterial infection. Simple techniques, such as proper handwashing and covering the face while coughing or sneezing, may reduce the spread of respiratory tract infections.
What is the best antibiotic for upper respiratory infection?
The recommended first-line treatment is a 10-day course of penicillin. Erythromycin can be used in patients who are allergic to penicillin. Amoxicillin, azithromycin (Zithromax), and first-generation cephalosporins are appropriate alternatives.
Do you isolate for viral meningitis?
Should a person with viral meningitis be isolated? Strict isolation is not necessary. Since most cases are due to enteroviruses that may be passed in the stool, people diagnosed with viral meningitis should be instructed to thoroughly wash their hands after using the toilet.
How do people get bacterial meningitis?
Bacteria that enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord cause acute bacterial meningitis. But it can also occur when bacteria directly invade the meninges. This may be caused by an ear or sinus infection, a skull fracture, or — rarely — some surgeries.
What are the symptoms of viral meningitis in adults?
Common symptoms in children and adults
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Stiff neck.
- Photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)
- Sleepiness or trouble waking up from sleep.
- Nausea.
- Irritability.
- Vomiting.
What is the most common cause of upper respiratory infections?
Viruses cause most upper respiratory tract infections. The most common virus is rhinovirus, which causes the common cold. Other viral causes include: Influenza: causes the flu and can cause more serious illness.
What do they give you for upper respiratory infection?
You can most likely treat the symptoms at home through pain relievers, rest and drinking fluids. If you have a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, you’ll take antibiotics. Penicillin or amoxicillin are frequently prescribed for strep throat.
What indicates bacterial meningitis?
Acute bacterial meningitis is rapidly progressive bacterial infection of the meninges and subarachnoid space. Findings typically include headache, fever, and nuchal rigidity. Diagnosis is by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. Treatment is with antibiotics and corticosteroids given as soon as possible.
What does viral meningitis headache feel like?
A headache caused by meningitis is typically described as severe and unrelenting. It does not subside by taking an aspirin. Stiff neck. This symptom most commonly involves a reduced ability to flex the neck forward, also called nuchal rigidity.
Is bacterial meningitis airborne?
Bacterial meningitis is NOT spread through casual contact or the airborne route; however, some bacteria can be spread by close contact with respiratory droplets (e.g., in daycare centers).
Do you get a cough with meningitis?
Meningitis can start out like a cold or the flu and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing, runny noses, and sore throats. After a while, the symptoms worsen and the classic symptoms of meningitis appear: headaches, fevers, and stiff neck.