Signs of meningitis in children

Ask:

I know many children with meningitis often come to the hospital late because the symptoms are easily confused with other diseases. Can you please explain the signs to recognize this disease?

Hoai Thu ( Hanoi )

Illustration photo.

MSc. Dr. Pham Thi Que, Center for Tropical Diseases, National Children's Hospital answered:

Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by viruses. The disease occurs in all ages but is more likely in people with weakened immune systems and children. The most common causes of viral meningitis include: Enterovirus (Coxsackie or Echovirus group), Herpesvirus (HSV1 and 2, VZV, CMV, EBV, HHV6), Arbovirus group (Japanese encephalitis virus, dengue virus...).

The main symptoms of viral meningitis in general can appear suddenly and include: Fever, chills, headache, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), loss of appetite, fatigue; Sometimes there are symptoms of a viral infection (such as a runny nose, cough, body aches or rash, before symptoms of meningitis appear); In infants, symptoms are often nonspecific and include: Fever, vomiting, bulging fontanelle, poor feeding, sleeping a lot...

To confirm the diagnosis, the child needs to have a lumbar puncture and a PCR test to determine the cause of the virus. Symptomatic treatment is currently the main method in managing viral meningitis with pain relievers, antipyretics, anti-inflammatory drugs and nutritional supplements to improve physical condition...

Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for meningitis caused by EV.

To prevent disease in children, parents need to instruct children to wash their hands with soap before eating, after coughing, sneezing, and using the toilet; eat cooked food, boil water, and use clean food of clear origin; clean shared toys, keep the living environment clean, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and chairs to prevent the spread of viruses.

Source: https://www.baogiaothong.vn/dau-hieu-nhan-biet-viem-mang-nao-o-tre-em-192241024231346554.htm