February 4
Meningitis
	Meningitis is an infection of the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain. It can be caused by a virus or bacteria. The bacteria that cause meningitis are very common; in fact most of us will carry them in the back of our nose and throat without any problems. But if the bacteria overcomes the body's immune defenses, they can enter the blood stream and cause meningitis. Common symptoms of meningitis are: Fever Headache Stiff neck Other symptoms may include: Nausea and vomiting Sensitivity to bright light Confusion Lethargy, and in some cases, Seizures Children younger than 2 may not show these symptoms; they may only seem inactive, irritable or lack an appetite. The bacteria are spread through respiratory and throat secretions, like coughing and kissing. You can't get meningitis through casual contact or just breathing the same air. Treatment with antibiotics can cure the infection, if they are started early enough. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward an early diagnosis.
	References and Resources: Bacterial meningitis Centers for Disease Control www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/meningtitis_g.htm