Treating childhood meningitis

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, which are protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It may be caused by bacteria, viruses or, less commonly, other microorganisms. It is a serious illness with consequences including long-term disability and death.

Diagnosis may be difficult as classic signs and symptoms are often absent in children and may be difficult to distinguish from those of less serious illnesses. Early intervention is associated with a better outcome and health professionals working in the community play a vital role in early recognition of the disease followed by urgent referral of patients to secondary care.¹