There has been an increase in the number of meningitis cases reported from different parts of Los Angeles County, with seven cases reported since mid-March.
More: Department of Public Health Reports on Meningitis
"The increase in cases of meningococcal disease in a short period of time is higher than expected. Last year, there were a total of 21 such cases," said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer.
Meningitis is an infection of the lining of the brain and parts of the nervous system. It can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. Bacterial meningitis is often the most serious form; it may be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated quickly.
Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible: high fever, confusion, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion and sensitivity to bright lights,
Diagnosis can be made with a spinal tap. Although many people fear that test, it is fairly simple; the skin is numbed and a needle is guided into the spinal canal to collect fluid for study. Done by an expert it may be less painful than the placement of an IV. The fluid can determine if the cause is bacterial or viral and also help doctors choose the best antibiotic for the infection.
Since meningitis is highly contagious (spread most often by close physical contact with an infected person, all close contacts of the infected person must be treated with antibiotics. In most cases, that will prevent infection entirely; in a few it may lessen the likelihood of symptoms and complications.
Even better than treatment is prevention. Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer said, “It is important to know that the meningococcal vaccine can prevent two of the three most common types of meningococcal disease in the United States.”
It is recommended that all 11- and 12-year-olds receive a meningococcal conjugate vaccine, along with a booster dose between 16 and 18 years of age. Currently, less than 50 percent of children in this age group are vaccinated.
Certain high-risk children from two to 10 years of age should also receive the vaccine. High-risk children include those who travel to countries where meningococcal meningitis is common and those with certain illnesses.
Young adults should get vaccinated if they are planning to live in a college dormitory. Adults requiring immunizations include those who have immune problems, microbiologists who are routinely exposed to meningococcal bacteria, U.S. military recruits, or those traveling to countries where the disease is common.
Check with your health care provider to see if you need the vaccine
