Diseases, Conditions & Concerns / Question
Published: January 16, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am writing an article for my school newspaper. The topic I am doing right now is something in teen health. I heard that teens are more prone to meningitis than any other group. Is this true? What can it do to a person? How does it spread?
Signed: Meningitis
Dear Meningitis,
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (the meninges) that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other organisms. Usually the infection starts in another part of the body and then spreads to the cerebrospinal fluid (fluid that circulates around the brain and spinal cord) and these membranes. Meningitis is a serious infection that can lead to death or permanent disability.
Most meningitis is caused by viruses and bacteria. Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial. It is usually caused by enteroviruses, common in the spring and fall, and can be spread by contact with mucous or saliva. Bacterial meningitis can be spread through activities like coughing and kissing that involve throat and body fluids. Symptoms of both bacterial and viral meningitis include:
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Seizure
In general, infants and the elderly are most prone to severe infections.
You may have heard about the meningitis vaccine that teens get before they go to college. Studies have shown that one type of meningitis caused by the bacteria, Neisseria meningitidis, is more common in college students, especially those living in dorms (JAMA, Aug 8, 2001: 286 (6): 694-699). Receiving a meningococcal vaccine usually can prevent this type of meningitis.
Cigarette smoking and binge drinking are known risk factors for meningococcal infection and other bacterial infections. You can decrease your risk of getting meningitis and other infections by avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, and by keeping fit and healthy.
Again, if you are having symptoms like described above, see your doctor promptly.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Adolescents are more likely than young adults to become dependent on prescription medications.
