Paediatric illnesses
Fever, headache, stiff neck - be careful of meningitis.
The early symptoms of meningitis are quite similar to those of a cold and rash, with a raised temperature and fever. However, if parents fail to distinguish between the two and delay their children's meningitis, it could lead to severe sequelae. In fact, by carefully observing the child's mental state and whether they have neck stiffness, one can differentiate between the two and seek medical attention for the child promptly.
Meningitis is an infection of the central nervous system that can be caused by bacteria or viruses. The causes and symptoms of meningitis vary with age. Newborns are more susceptible to infections from Streptococcus B and E. coli, while meningococcal bacteria and pneumococcus are common in older children. Newborns infected with meningitis are more likely to experience fever, abnormal crying, and vomiting. In contrast, symptoms of meningitis in older children are more typical, such as fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and listlessness. If infected with meningococcal bacteria, purple-red rashes may appear, and in severe cases, it can be fatal.
If a patient is suspected of having meningitis, a doctor will perform a spinal tap to collect cerebrospinal fluid for laboratory analysis. In turn, treatment will be administered according to the diagnosis. Bacterial meningitis requires antibiotic treatment. However, how can parents distinguish if their children have contracted meningitis? Although the condition, like a cold, can cause fever, meningitis patients have a severe infection that can easily damage the nervous system and hearing. Therefore, if parents notice their child appears listless, has a severe headache, and a stiff neck, they should seek medical attention immediately.
As meningitis bacteria can be transmitted through droplets, parents must pay attention to personal hygiene, such as the habit of hand washing. Vaccination for children can also be considered. For example, the meningococcal vaccine can generally be administered from nine months of age to provide corresponding protection.
Source: Health Wealth Creation
