What are the usual signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis?
The most common symptoms are a sudden onset of fever greater than 101 degrees, a severe headache, a stiff neck and/or back, and mental confusion. Individuals may also notice an unusual looking rash along with the above symptoms. Any person experiencing the above symptoms should seek medical care immediately as the illness can progress rapidly once the initial signs and symptoms are noted. What can I do to lower my risk of contracting meningitis? The primary thing you can do is to maintain a healthy lifestyle including adequate sleep, a balanced diet, a smoke free lifestyle, avoid binge and heavy alcohol consumption, appropriate exercise and an voidance of excessive stress. A strong immune system is you best defense. Smoking or inhalation of second hand smoke has been shown to slightly increase an individual’s risk for contacting meningitis. Good hygiene techniques, including frequent hand washing, will reduce your risk. Is there a vaccine against meningococcal meningitis? There are two
