esult of a previous, usually viral, infection. This infection lowers the bodys immune response and the causative organism can enter the cerebrospinal fluid through the blood brain barrier and reproduce with immune system directed at the previous infection. The bacteria make their way into the cerebrospinal fluid though a complex system of actions that is aided by the weakened immune system. The immune system inside the cerebrospinal fluid is very weak and depends on the rest of the body to keep out harmful pathogens. When the bacterium enters the cerebrospinal fluid, it can reproduce easily and can cause many problems including infection of the brain (Leib 530-540).Bacterial meningitis can be characterized by a number of symptoms, but may differ in adults and children. Children have more occurrence of an upper respiratory infection where as adults are noted to have a fever. In both children and adults, symptoms include: Nausea, vomiting, headache, photophobia, neck and back pain, and a stiff neck. Petechiae, red spots on appendages, are found on most adults and a key symptom that can identify meningitis. There can be serious complications of the disease such as hearing loss, mental retardation, and death (Kaplan 580-583).Bacterial meningitis can be treated if diagnosed in time. Antibiotics are used in high doses and can effectively eradicate the bacteria from the host. Cephlosporins and sulfa drugs can be used to effectively treat most forms of causal organisms. The key to treatment is the promptness of administration. If treatment is slowed permanent side effects could develop into serious debilitations (CDC). Prevention of meningitis has become more effective in recent years. Vaccines for H. influenzae have been developed and greatly reduced the incidence in children. Vaccines are now being developed for N. meningitidis and are available for adults. This is the best way to prevent meningitis from occurring. It is also...
