Breaking down the different types of meningitis
TRAVERSE CITY -- The Fungal Meningitis outbreak has now reached 16 states, has been connected to 297 illnesses and 23 deaths - including 5 in Michigan so far. But what exactly is Fungal Meningitis, and how does it differ from Bacterial Meningitis and Viral Meningitis? Making a House Call this week is Mark Thompson from Thompson Pharmacy in Traverse City.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges."
Breaking down Fungal Meningitis:
-It is much less common than the other two infectious forms.
-Someone who has an impaired immune system is more likely to become infected with this form of meningitis.
-Fungal Meningitis is not contagious, which means it is not transmitted from person to person.
-Fungal Meningitis can develop after a fungus spreads through the bloodstream from somewhere else in the body
Signs & symptoms of Fungal Meningitis:
-Fever
-Headache
-Stiff neck
-Nausea and vomiting
-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
-Altered mental status
Signs & symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis:
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
-Altered mental status (confusion)
Bacterial Meningitis:
-Bacterial Meningitis is an extremely serious illness that requires immediate medical care. If not treated quickly, it can lead to death within hours.
-Bacterial Meningitis is caused by any one of several bacteria.
-This form of meningitis is contagious. The bacteria can spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing.
-Vaccines are available
Viral Meningitis:
-Less serious type, most common form
-May be exposed to virus, but it may not ever appear as an infection
-Most recover completely
Signs & Symptoms of Viral Meningitis:
-High fever
-headache
-Neck Stiffness
-Lack of appetite
-Sleepiness
-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
-Some vaccines available
To learn more, click the video above.
For more information on all of these types of meningitis, click HERE.
For more information on Thompson Pharmacy call 231-947-4212.
