What is Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM)?
Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) is a very serious infection that can sometimes lead to fatal
consequences.
CSM is an acute inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord (meninges). This condition is classified as a medical emergency. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) about 10 -15 % of patients diagnosed with CSM die (http://www.who.int/en/).
Causes of Cerebrospinal Meningitis
Meningitis can be caused by bacterial, viral, fungi and even chemicals. In our environment, the
leading cause is bacterial. Bacterial meningitis is caused by various bacterial pathogens.
Neisseria meningitides, Streptococcus pneumonia, and Haemophilus influenza type B are the
triad responsible for over 80% of all cases of bacterial meningitis.
Under certain environmental conditions such as dry weather, dusty winds, high temperatures
during the day and cold temperatures at night (especially during the harmattan season from
October to March), the virulence of these otherwise naturally existing microorganisms increases,
causing sporadic outbreaks of cerebrospinal meningitis.
People living in overcrowded conditions, poorly ventilated houses and generally poor sanitary conditions are very vulnerable to respiratory infections, and this encourages the growth and survival of the bacteria.
Mode of Transmission
Bacterial and viral meningitis are contagious and can be transmitted through tiny droplets of respiratory secretions from an infected person during close contact such as kissing, coughing or sneezing on someone, as well as sharing of eating or drinking utensils.
Carrier rates may be as high as 25% during endemic periods and as high as 50% during epidemics. Incubation periods vary from 2 to 10 days.
Anyone can contract meningitis, but people whose bodies have trouble fighting infections are
more susceptible.
Symptoms of Cerebrospinal Meningitis
Meningitis can progress rapidly. One must seek medical care quickly when you experience the
following symptoms:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Photophobia (increased sensitivity to light)
- Vomiting
- Confusion and convulsions
In babies, there may be bulging of the anterior fontanelle (soft part of the head)
Although sometimes CSM can end up in fatality, most often it can be successfully treated with
intravenous antibiotics.
Early treatment can help prevent serious long-term consequences such as
deafness, blindness, epileptic seizures, and brain damage.
How to Prevent Cerebrospinal Meningitis
You can prevent CSM and avoid possible complications by practicing effective prevention. As
preventive measures one needs to:
- Avoid overcrowded places.
- Avoid direct contact with people coughing or sneezing.
- Allow adequate ventilation in our houses.
- Seek immediate medical help when you notice any of the symptoms of CSM.
File extract from: DR. OXANA ALEXANDROVNA GORLEKU/UCC/ARCHIVES
