Pneumococcal Meningitis is preventable. Pneumococcal Meningitis is an infection caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The disease is neither a curse nor hereditary; anyone can get it Symptoms of Pneumococcal Meningitis usually come rapidly. An infected person may develop chest pains, chills, confusion, cough, headache, high fever, rapid breathing, vomiting and even stiff neck.
Pneumococcal Meningitis can lead to brain damage, deafness, learning disabilities, and paralysis. Because this disease is dangerous, it is very important to go to the doctor right away if you suspect you have it.
Pneumococcal Meningitis Myths and Facts
MYTH:
Meningococcal disease is easy to diagnose.
FACT:
Meningococcal disease is often misdiagnosed as something less serious because early symptoms are similar to influenza and other common viral illnesses. Symptoms may include some combination of high fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, and a purplish rash. If any of these symptoms are present and are unusually sudden, progressive or severe, call a healthcare professional immediately.
MYTH:
Meningococcal disease is only dangerous in young children.
FACT:
While it is most common in infants younger than one year of age, anyone can get meningococcal disease. In addition, adolescents and college freshmen who live in dormitories, and other young adults are at increased risk of getting meningococcal disease compared to children and older adults.
MYTH:
Healthy adolescents and young adults don't have to worry about getting meningococcal disease.
FACT:
Meningococcal disease is rare, but in fact, the risk of getting it increases in adolescents and young adults. The disease can progress rapidly, killing an otherwise healthy individual in 24-48 hours.
MYTH:
Meningococcal disease is spread by casual contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands.
FACT:
Meningococcal meningitis is spread through air droplets and direct contact with an infected person. It is not spread through casual contact.