Antibiotics are the most common treatment of meningococcal meningitis infections. Hospitalization is required in some of the more extreme cases, where supplemental oxygen or blood transfusions are necessary. In some cases, family members who were in contact with the infected individual are also given antibiotics.
However, the most effective means of controlling the disease is prevention. There are three types of vaccines: ones that work as polysaccharides, membrane proteins, and conjugate vaccines. A new vaccine for meningococcal meningitis, called MCV4, is readily available and recommended for teens and adolescents. It is very much recommended that students entering college receive the vaccine due to the characteristics of the college lifestyle.
There exists a National Meningitis Association which endeavors to spread awareness of the disease. In addition, several support groups are available to those afflicted, including Meningitis Angels.
No comments:
Post a Comment