Bacterial Meningitis in Infants

Bacterial Meningitis in Infants

Meningitis is a bacterial infection that affects the membrane covering brain and the spinal cord, and can be life-threatening if not treated timely. This blog discusses the causes, signs, and symptoms, as well as the management of this disease in infants. Understanding about bacterial meningitis in newborns can help parents and caregivers recognise it early and seek prompt medical care. Read on to know more.

Meningitis is a bacterial infection that affects the membrane covering brain and the spinal cord, and can be life-threatening if not treated timely. This blog discusses the causes, signs, and symptoms, as well as the management of this disease in infants. Understanding about bacterial meningitis in newborns can help parents and caregivers recognise it early and seek prompt medical care. Read on to know more.

Causes

Neonatal bacterial meningitis can be caused by several pathogens. The most common include:

1. Group B Streptococcus (GBS):

Often acquired during birth from the mother.

2. Escherichia coli (E. coli):

Particularly in premature infants.

3. Listeria monocytogenes:

Can be transmitted through contaminated food and affects newborns.

4. Neisseria meningitidis:

A less common cause, but can occur in infants and children.

5. Streptococcus pneumoniae:

A common cause of bacterial meningitis in older infants and children.