Meningitis means infection or inflammation of the covering of the brain. It can be sudden onset or long standing. Infectious causes are most common. Infectious causes include bacterial like Streptococcal, Pneumococcal, Meningococcal, Hemophilus Influenza, Tuberculosis. Viral causes like Herpes group, enterovirus, Arboviruses, fungal infections and Parasitic infections.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Altered sensorium
• Drowsiness & seizures.

Diagnosis is based on clinical information, examination findings like papilledema, and neck stiffness. Investigations are usually blood investigations, an MRI brain with contrast, and a Lumbar puncture for CSF analysis, where tests are available to identify the causative organism

Other complications are encephalopathy, cognitive impairment, the tendency for seizure recurrence, visual loss, and paralysis.  It is crucial to increase awareness among the general public to know the symptoms and seek appropriate and timely treatment to avoid complications and adverse outcomes.

What is Cerebral Palsy (CP)?

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder caused by damage to the developing brain, leading to difficulties with movement, muscle tone, and posture. While the brain injury itself is non-progressive, symptoms can vary, from mild motor impairments to severe physical disabilities, and may evolve as the child grows. Raising awareness through public campaigns, storytelling, and community outreach is crucial for ensuring early diagnosis and intervention, which significantly improves outcomes.

Treatments

Treatments include Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, medications, and surgical interventions that can enhance mobility and quality of life. Timely intervention is essential, as it helps prevent complications and enables individuals with CP to achieve greater independence and manage conditions associated with it. There is no cure, though, emphasizes that early treatment is the main mantra for cerebral palsy. Timely intervention can be life-altering. While CP is not typically life-threatening, severe cases can lead to complications. By spreading awareness and supporting access to advanced treatments, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by CP. Assistive technology, such as braces, walkers, and wheelchairs, plays a significant role in helping individuals with CP gain greater independence. Additionally, ongoing research into stem cell therapy and neuroregeneration offers promise for repairing brain injuries, though these treatments are still in experimental phases. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial, as starting therapy early significantly improves motor function and helps prevent complications like joint deformities. Timely treatments also enable individuals with CP to reach their maximum potential for independence

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With over 2.5 million cases reported globally each year, meningitis represents a severe health crisis, as nearly 70% of those who succumb to this disease, are children under the age of five. Meningitis is the swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord (the meninges) and is usually caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Clinical features of patients with meningitis vary depending on the cause, disease course (acute, sub-acute, or chronic), brain involvement (meningoencephalitis), and systemic complications (e.g., sepsis). Common symptoms of meningitis are neck stiffness, fever, confusion or altered mental status, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Less frequent symptoms are seizures, coma, and neurological deficits (for example hearing or vision loss, cognitive impairment, or weakness of the limbs).

India ranks amongst the top three countries with the highest number of meningitis-related deaths. Amongst the three pathogens causing Acute Bacterial Meningitis, Neisseria Meningitidis accounts for a high case fatality rate of upto 15% despite treatment and up to 50% when untreated. Studies have shown an increase in the incidence of Neisseria Meningitidis causing Acute Bacterial Meningitis, in Indian children < 2 years.

Dr.Amit Nigade, Consultant Pediatrician & Neonatologist, Cloudnine Hospital Kalyaninagar, Pune emphasizes “The neurological damage caused by meningitis is often irreversible, making vaccination critical for those most at risk, including young children and people with compromised immune systems. Vaccination not only prevents infection but also saves lives by stopping the disease before it can do long-term harm. It’s a vital step in safeguarding the health of our most vulnerable.“

To combat this deadly disease, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends a meningococcal vaccine a 2-dose schedule between 9-23 months and a single dose above 2 years who are at increased risk of this disease.

If your child is aged 9 months and above, ensure they receive a vaccine against Invasive Meningococcal Disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also launched a roadmap aimed at eliminating bacterial meningitis epidemics by 2030, endeavoring to reduce vaccine-preventable cases by 50% and deaths by 70%.10 As we observe World Meningitis Day, let us commit to protecting our children and communities. Taking proactive steps today can save lives tomorrow, ensuring a healthier future for all.

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