Treatment:

Antibiotics such as ceftriaxone are prescribed and given through the arm by IV (intravenous line). Other medicines may be used to treat the complications from increased spinal fluid pressure.

Sometimes steroid medication is used, more often in children than adults.

People in close contact with someone with meningococcal meningitis should be given antibiotics to prevent infection. Such people include:

• Household members
• Roommates in dormitories
• Those who come into close contact with an infected person

Expectations (prognosis):

Early diagnosis and treatment is extremely important to prevent serious illness or death. The death rate ranges from 5% - 15%. Young children and adults over 50 have the highest risk of death.

Complications:

• Brain damage
• Deafness
• Hydrocephalus
• Increased spinal fluid pressure
• Mental retardation
• Myocarditis
• Paralysis of various muscles
• Shock

Calling your health care provider:

Go to an emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if:

• You notice symptoms of meningitis
• Symptoms get worse or do not improve with treatment
• You think you have been exposed to someone with meningitis

Meningitis can quickly become life-threatening.