Bacterial Meningitis Kills Softball Player; 10 Symptoms & Treatment Facts You Should Know
A high school student, named Madison Small, died due to bacterial meningitis. The 18-year-old, who is also a softball player from Ashburn, Virgina, died after complaining about a headache and feeling ill, reports ABC News.
Health officials diagnosed Small with bacterial meningitis several days after her death. Dr. David Goodfriend, director of the health department in Loudoun County, Virgina explains to ABC why there are no signs of an outbreak.
He states, "There have been no other cases identified so far. We are still actively looking for any additional cases, but as we get closer to the 10-day limit, the likelihood that an additional case will arise becomes less likely."
He further explains that the bacteria has a three- to four-day incubation period, with the maximum time between exposure and onset of illness as 10 days.
Listed below are some symptoms and facts about bacterial meningitis from Mayo Clinic.
#1: Definition of Meningitis (in General)
It is "an inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding your brain and spinal cord."
#2: Types Meningitis Caused by Infection
In the United States, most cases of meningitis are caused by viral infections. There are instances, however, when meningitis is caused by bacterial infection, like in the case of Madison Small. Meningitis can also be caused by fungal infections.
#3: Non-infectious Causes of Meningitis
Chemical reactions, drug allergies, certain cancers, and inflammatory diseases can also lead to meningitis.
#4: Chronic Meningitis
This type of meningitis "develops over two weeks or more." It is caused by slow-growing organisms invading the membranes and brain fluid.
#5: Hallmark Signs of Meningitis
Due to swelling, signs of meningitis include severe and unusual headaches, high fever, and stiff neck.
#6: Symptoms for Children Older than 2-years-old
These are other symptoms that may be seen in older children who have meningitis: vomiting or nausea; confusion or difficulty concentrating; seizures; sleepiness or difficulty waking up; sensitivity to light; lack of interest in drinking and eating; skin rashes (e.g., meningococcal meningitis).
#7: Symptoms of Meningitis in Newborns
Symptoms of meningitis may differ in newborns and infants. Some symptoms of meningitis in this age group are: constant crying; excessive sleepiness or irritability; inactivity or sluggishness; poor feeding; a bulge in the soft spot of a baby's head; stiffness in the entire body.
#8: Treatment and Risks of Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis can lead to serious outcomes if not treated properly and swiftly. It requires "prompt antibiotic treatment;" otherwise, there is risk of permanent brain damage. Like in the case of Small, bacterial meningitis can sometimes lead to death within a couple of days.
#9: Diagnosing Meningitis and its Causes
To correctly diagnose the cause of meningitis in children, parents must bring their child to the doctor for spinal fluid testing. Mayo Clinic advises telling the doctor if anyone at work or in the family has had meningitis recently.
#10: Risk Factors
Skipping vaccinations can increase the chances of getting meningitis. Age can also be a factor. Children under age five are usually infected with viral meningitis, while people under 20 are usually infected with the bacterial form.