World Menin-gitis Day was globally observed on April 24. The entire healthcare community came together to continue their efforts to eradicate this deadly disease and to save millions of children worldwide. Meningitis refers to an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain, known as the meninges and is most commonly the result of a viral or bacterial infection.
While viral meningitis generally clears up without specific treatment, bacterial meningitis is a far more serious infection that can cause severe brain damage and, if untreated, can lead to death in half of all reported cases. Even with prompt, appropriate treatment, the consequences of bacterial meningitis can be extremely severe. Although, the disease is equally common in infants and adults, the mortality rates in infants are observed to be much higher. For children up to 5 years, the vaccine providing coverage against 13 types of bacteria causing meningitis is now available and is used widely.
Dr Amir Mohammad Jogezai, President, Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA), stressed on the need for prevention of the disease, He said: "The use of vaccines help in preventing a substantial portion of meningitis deaths in Pakistan".
The symptoms for Meningitis mostly are sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting, light sensitivity, as well as altered consciousness. Meningitis can best be avoided through vaccination, which is available, and has played a major role in tackling the gravity of this disease.-PR
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