Highly dangerous and contagious among children and adolescents, meningitis is currently wreaking havoc in France. Causes, symptoms, treatment… Here is the essential thing to know about this infection which can also be caused by a virus, a fungus or a parasite.
After the confirmation of the diagnosis in an ambulance driver who died in France last Friday, the Regional Health Agency of Martinique announced that it had put in place preventive measures to prevent the spread of meningitis.
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What is Meningitis, this deadly infection which is exploding in France?
In France, the significant increase in cases of bacterial meningitis results from several factors including an effect boomerang post-Covidthe increased circulation of virulent strains and vaccination coverage which is still insufficient so far.
But what exactly are we talking about? Meningitis is an infection which attacks the brainin particular the three envelopes which protect the central nervous system, namely: the brain, the cerebellum and the spinal cord. Although viral meninges are not serious, those of bacterial origin represent a serious threatparticularly in children and adolescents. These can progress quickly and lead to serious complications.
Furthermore, the meningeal diagnosis is based on a lumbar puncture, supplemented by an in-depth analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid. The appearance of the latter (clear or cloudy) points towards a viral or bacterial origin. In addition, additional tests are generally administered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis and adapt the treatment.
Meningitis can have several causes, but the most common are viral and bacterial. More rare, meningitis can also be caused by fungi or parasitesespecially in people with weakened immune systems.
-What are the symptoms of this deadly infection?
Very contagious, meningitis manifests itself by symptoms such as severe headacheincreased sensitivity to light, vomiting, fever and stiff neck. Other signs are often observed in patients, namely: a pale complexion, significant body aches, severe fatigue, drowsiness, impaired consciousness or convulsions, etc.
Furthermore, certain forms of meningitis can progress to a serious generalized infectionwhich are manifested by the appearance of purple spots which do not disappear under pressure. In such a case, it is essential to contact the emergency services.
In babiesmeningitis manifests itself by less specific signs, such as: inconsolable crying, irritability, excessive drowsiness, refusal to eat or a pale complexion.
In summary, viral meningitis is generally benign, while bacterial meningitis requires urgent medical careto avoid serious complications and, in some cases, death.
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