FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Meningitis

Aug 1, 2012
2012 / August 2012

Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, the thin membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Some forms are highly contagious, causing alarm within close communities like college dormitories, military bases and boarding schools.

The symptoms of meningitis are sudden fever, severe headache and a stiff neck. Meningitis often appears with flu-like symptoms that develop over one to two days. Distinctive rashes are seen in some forms of the disease.

The severity of the illness and treatment differ depending on cause, so it is important to know the specific type of meningitis you are treating. There are several types, though the most common causes are viral or bacterial. Parasitic meningitis, less common in developed countries, is caused by parasites that contaminate water, food and soil. Noninfectious meningitis is caused by cancers, lupus, certain medications, head injury and brain surgery and is not contagious.

Enteroviruses, West Nile, herpes simplex and other viruses cause more meningitis cases each year than do bacteria. Viral meningitis is generally benign and clears within two weeks. It is serious but rarely fatal in people with normal immune systems. Commonly spread via fecal contamination, the viruses cause joint pain, diarrhea and sore throat and tend to circulate in late summer and early fall. Vaccines can prevent some types of viral meningitis. Treatment consists of bed rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter pain medications to reduce fever and body aches.

Bacterial meningitis is more serious because it develops rapidly, is highly contagious and is associated with a significant risk of death. The leading causes are the Neisseria meningitides and Streptococcus pneumonia bacteria. Bacterial meningitis spreads to others by contact with saliva, nasal discharge, feces and respiratory and throat secretions. Most often it spreads through kissing; coughing; or sharing drinking glasses, eating utensils and personal care items such as toothbrushes, lipstick and cigarettes. People who share a household, classroom or daycare center with an infected person can become infected.

Children without access to vaccinations are at increased risk for bacterial meningitis. Other risk factors include age, living in a community setting, pregnancy, working with animals (coming in contact with the Listeria bacterium) and a compromised immune system. Factors such as AIDS, diabetes, immunosuppressant medications and removal of the spleen can compromise the immune system. Women who are pregnant can contract Listeriosis, a bacterial infection which can cause meningitis if it spreads to the nervous system, putting the unborn baby at risk.

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitides or Meningococcus bacteria. Most cases occur in children, adolescents and young adults, usually in winter and spring. The meningococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all 11- to 18-yearolds. Meningococcal meningitis may be associated with kidney and adrenal gland failure, shock and death in some cases.

Travelers to the “meningitis belt” in sub-Saharan Africa may be at risk for meningococcal disease, particularly in the dry season from December to June. Epidemics in Africa affect hundreds of thousands of people, killing thousands. The Centers for Disease Control are working with the Meningitis Vaccine Project and its partners to vaccinate more than 300 million people in the region by 2016.

Health care providers performing a physical exam and a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) in which a small sample of cerebrospinal fluid is removed and sent to the laboratory for analysis diagnose meningitis. Imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans of the chest and skull can detect swelling and inflammation. Blood cultures may also be drawn.

Treatment for bacterial meningitis includes hospitalization with IV antibiotics to be started as soon as possible after symptoms occur. Rest and supportive care are important. Early treatment improves the outcome and prevents serious complications, including death. The death rate is 5 to 15 percent; young children and adults over 50 have the highest risk of death. Complications of meningitis can be severe, such as seizures or neurological damage including loss of hearing, vision, memory or speech; learning disabilities; behavior problems; brain damage; and paralysis.

Help Prevent Meningitis

  • Wash your hands before meals and after using the toilet, changing a diaper, petting animals or being in a crowd.
  • Stay healthy: Get rest and exercise and eat fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
  • Avoid sharing drinking glasses, eating utensils, toothbrushes and other personal items.
  • If you are pregnant, eat only thoroughly cooked meat; avoid cheeses made from unpasteurized milk.
  • If you have contact with someone who has had meningitis, ask your doctor if you need a vaccination or treatment.

Centers for Disease Control

Meningitis Vaccine Project

The content of this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Jun 4, 2025

Take a “The Sound of Music”-Themed Getaway at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl

Lovers of the iconic film The Sound of Music and the fascinating story of the von Trapp family have Salzburg on their travel radar this year to celebrate the movie’s 60th anniversary. The city is already a year-round destination for its food, culture and beauty, where film fans regularly enjoy themed tours and visits to film sites. Next year, though, attractions will expand with the opening of The Sound of Music museum.

Smarter Business Travel: 12 Tips from IHG Business Edge

For small- and mid-sized businesses, travel is often a necessary part of growth — helping to strengthen client relationships, explore new markets and attend key industry events. But with rising costs and limited resources, keeping business travel efficient and budget-friendly is more important than ever.

Daily
Jun 4, 2025

The Peninsula London Debuts New Peninsula Academy Offerings

The Peninsula London recently launched three bespoke experiences, part of the brand’s Peninsula Academy program. Exclusive to hotel guests, these journeys highlight uniquely London experiences, as led by expert guides.

eFlyer Reviews
Jun 4, 2025

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Review

Today’s Fort Lauderdale is not the one you or your older relatives experienced in college; while beachfront surf shops along Fort Lauderdale Boulevard recall that colorful Spring Break era, Las Olas Boulevard embodies the city’s recent glow-up, particularly after the pandemic. In fact, it was spring 2020 when Hyatt Centric Las Olas opened its doors and played a major role in reshaping and rethinking Fort Lauderdale as a relaxed but lively vacation or business destination.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

eFlyer News
Jun 4, 2025

American Airlines Now Offers Touchless ID Screening at These Airports

American Airlines implemented a streamlined process at TSA airport security checkpoints through TSA PreCheck Touchless ID on May 29 at several airports across the United States. AAdvantage members traveling through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Salt Lake City International Airport will be eligible.

eFlyer Lead
Jun 4, 2025

U.S. Dollar is Dropping in Value: Will This Impact Travel?

In late May, the U.S. dollar fell for a third day against several currencies, and it’s evident the power of the U.S. dollar is weakening, leading many Americans to wonder if this will influence travel this summer and beyond.

Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November

Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.

Daily
Jun 4, 2025

Boutique, Culturally Driven Hotel Debuts in Taos, New Mexico

A new refuge emerges in Taos, New Mexico, with Hotel Willa, the latest addition to Casetta’s growing portfolio of boutique hotels and the brand’s entrance into the American Southwest. At the edge of Downtown Taos Historic District, this 50-room retreat reimagines a 1960’s, adobe-style motor lodge.