Can you catch pneumococcal meningitis?
Pneumococcal meningitis is not considered to be contagious. Therefore, close contact with someone who has the illness poses no increased risk of infection and there is little chance of a second related case occurring.
What is the most common pneumococcal meningitis?
S. pneumoniae is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults. It is also among the leading causes of bacterial meningitis in children under 2 years old.
What organism causes pneumococcal meningitis?
Pneumococcal meningitis is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria (also called pneumococcus, or S pneumoniae). This type of bacteria is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults. It is the second most common cause of meningitis in children older than age 2.
Is pneumococcal meningitis fatal?
Pneumococcal meningitis is a rare but very serious illness that can develop into a life-threatening medical emergency. The infection may have long-term consequences and can even be fatal.
How do people get pneumococcal meningitis?
Pneumococcal meningitis is transmitted from one person to another. The bacteria are spread through direct contact with the tiny droplets from an infected person’s mouth, throat, or nose. For example, if someone with the infection coughs or sneezes on or near you, you may contract the disease.
What antibiotic is used for pneumococcal meningitis?
Pneumococcal meningitis has been treated with 12 to 24 million units of penicillin every 24 hours or 1 to 2 g ceftriaxone every 12 hours. Either regimen is effective against antibiotic-susceptible S.
How long does it take to recover from pneumococcal meningitis?
Most people feel better within 7 to 10 days. In the meantime, it can help to: get plenty of rest.
What confirms a diagnosis of pneumococcal pneumonia?
Doctors can use a urine test to help make a diagnosis of pneumococcal pneumonia in adults. Doctors usually diagnose ear and sinus infections based on a history and physical exam findings that support pneumococcal infection. Doctors use a lumbar puncture to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid.