Meningitis is characterized by the inflammation of the protective layers encasing the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges, due to bacterial or viral infection. This condition can afflict individuals of any age, with infants, young children, teenagers, and young adults particularly susceptible.

Meningitis, a severe inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, can affect infants due to various factors. Like many other illnesses, bacterial and viral meningitis forms can spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching by an infected individual.

Viral meningitis often results from viruses responsible for common ailments, including colds, flu, mumps, and diarrhea.

Different bacteria are responsible for bacterial meningitis, which affects children. In infants, the leading causes are typically E. coli and group B streptococcus (GBS) bacteria. As children age, Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus, and Neisseria meningitidis, known as meningococcus, are more frequently the culprits.

Meningitis in babies does not present all its symptoms simultaneously. Key indicators to watch for include:

- A high fever, evidenced by a temperature of 38°C or more, complemented by either cold hands and feet or shivering.
- Sensitivity to light, resulting in the baby squinting or shielding their eyes.
- Severe headache or neck stiffness.
- Pain sensations manifest as stomach, joint, or muscle aches or show through stiff, jerky movements or a lack of motion and floppiness.
- Nausea and refusal to eat.
- Extreme drowsiness, lethargy, unresponsiveness, difficulty in waking, irritability upon being held, and either a high-pitched or moaning cry. Confusion or delirium may also occur.
- Skin appearing pale or bluish.
- Rapid or difficult breathing.
- A swollen, firm, soft spot on the head, known medically as the anterior fontanelle.
- Episodes of seizure.
- A distinctive rash that remains visible when pressed with a glass.

If parents notice these symptoms in their child, it is crucial to seek medical care immediately.

Viral meningitis, the most common form, varies in severity. While it tends to be milder in general, infants under three months and high-risk children may face severe complications. Certain viruses, like herpes simplex, pose a risk of severe viral meningitis in both children and adults.

Bacterial meningitis involves multiple bacteria types and can be transmitted from one individual to another. While healthy individuals might carry these bacteria without exhibiting symptoms, they can transmit them to others. Due to its potentially fatal nature, seeking immediate medical attention for bacterial meningitis is critical.

When a medical professional believes an infant may have meningitis, a critical and potentially life-threatening condition, they will likely conduct a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include:

Blood Testing: This procedure can detect the presence of pathogens in the blood that may be causing the infection.

Computed Tomography Scan (CT Scan): This procedure employs X-rays and computer technology to capture detailed images of the body's internal structures.

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): During this process, a healthcare provider inserts a needle into the lower back to extract spinal fluid for analysis.

To address bacterial meningitis, infants usually undergo hospitalization for several days to receive treatments, including intravenous (IV) antibiotics and fluids. Doctors might also administer steroids to reduce swelling. Throughout this period, medical professionals monitor closely for any potential complications.

For viral meningitis, the approach is less intensive. The majority of infants recover within 7 to 10 days without the need for antibiotics or hospital admission.

Vaccination
Certain vaccines offer protection against meningitis, including those designed to combat infections caused by meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria.

Maintaining Hygiene
Both children and adults are advised to wash their hands thoroughly frequently, particularly before meals and after visiting the restroom. They should also avoid being near individuals who appear unwell and share food, beverages, or culinary tools.

Prophylactic Antibiotics
In specific instances, medical professionals may administer antibiotics to individuals in close contact with someone diagnosed with bacterial meningitis to avert potential infection.