Health tip(Must read)--Pneumococcal Meningitis what it is, causes, and syptoms..

There is  an outbreak of Pneumococcal Meningitis in some parts of the country, and we decided to advise the public about it, this piece of information was sent to us on whatsapp. We would be talking about the causes, symptoms of the disease.

. Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the meninges. Your meninges are the membranes that cover your spinal cord and your brain. Meningitis can be caused by many different germs, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Pneumococcal meningitis, however, is a bacterial form of meningitis.

What Causes Pneumococcal Meningitis?

. Pneumococcal meningitis is caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae.

. How Is Pneumococcal Meningitis Transmitted?

. Pneumococcal meningitis is transmitted from person to person. The bacteria are

spread through 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.

You can also contract the disease from an infected person by kissing or by sharing anything that comes into contact with the mouth such as:

**a cup

**a fork

**a straw

**lipstick

**a cigarette

PLS NOTE: Close living situations—can increase your risk for infection.

Signs of Pneumococcal Meningitis

You will typically develop symptoms one to three days after you were exposed to

the bacteria. In some cases, the symptoms may develop sooner or later than that.

Symptoms of pneumococcal meningitis usually come on rapidly. An infected person may develop the following common symptoms:

**chest pain

**chills

**confusion

**cough

**headache

**high fever

**vomiting

**weakness

Other possible symptoms of this form of meningitis include:

**agitation

**irritability

**rapid breathing

**stiff neck

**In infants, the soft spot on the head (called the fontanelle) may bulge outward.

. How Is Pneumococcal Meningitis Diagnosed?

. Pneumococcal meningitis is generally diagnosed through a spinal tap. This

involves your doctor collecting a sample of the fluid in your spine. By testing this

fluid, your doctor or healthcare provider can figure out whether you have

pneumococcal meningitis.

Your doctor might also perform a physical examination when trying to figure out if you have pneumococcal meningitis.

Signs that point toward the condition include:

**fast heart rate

**fever

**stiff neck

**vomiting

Visit the nearest health post or center as soon as you start feeling any of the above symptoms. Early diagnosis and early treatment saves lives

Pls share on your wall to keep those you love and call friends safe.