After experiencing severe headaches and several tests that showed no cause, a mother discovered that her 12-year-old daughter had meningitis. We hear about cases back in the spotlight, so are we witnessing an outbreak of the disease? Is there a reason to be concerned?
Dr. Salah Zain Eddine explains, in an interview with MTV, that meningitis is an inflammation of the brain's membrane, and its causes vary. It may result from a virus or bacteria, which are usually harmful and dangerous, unlike the virus. He reassures that this disease does not have an epidemic status, noting that a specific type of meningitis known as "Neisseria," which is rare, causes infection and spreads rapidly; however, the ordinary germs that cause meningitis are usually not contagious. This means it is not infectious most of the time.
Dr. Zain Eddine confirms that "meningitis is always present, and nothing indicates today an alarming increase in cases." Therefore, the situation is normal, and there is no need to panic. Meningitis is always present, but its common symptoms, primarily headaches, cause concern for many, especially parents. So, what other symptoms should people be aware of?
Dr. Zain Eddine replies: "Symptoms include severe headaches, fever, and neck stiffness. It may also affect consciousness in some, particularly older adults, or lead to confusion and loss of concentration." Regarding the vaccine, he states, "the vaccine protects against a specific type of meningitis, not all of them."
However, with some vaccines missing, is the meningitis vaccine available? Sources within the Ministry of Health confirm to MTV that the vaccine against the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria is the only one available for children, while the meningococcal ACWY vaccine for travelers is not available in the ministry.
