Hearing loss is the most common complication of meningitis.  Therefore, all babies must have hearing evaluated post treatment through auditory evoked potentials studies. Post-treatment bacteria or other pathogens can remain and cause complications. One of these is increased intracranial pressure from a build-up of fluid between different compartments of the brain. All babies must undergo a follow up MRI 7 to 10 days after treatment for meningitis has ended. Be sure your child has had all vaccinations in order to reduce the chance of getting viral meningitis. Reduce the risk of future children getting meningitis. If you are pregnant and you have HSV with genital lesions present, inform your doctor before delivery. Some forms of bacterial meningitis are contagious. Keep young children and babies away from contact with contagious or sick individuals. Some people may be at higher risk for contracting meningitis, depending on certain circumstances. Some of these include:   Age: Children under five years old may be at higher risk for viral meningitis. Adults over the age of 20 may be at higher risk for bacterial meningitis. Living in close quarters: When people live in close contact with many other people, such as dormitories, military bases, boarding schools and child care facilities, they may be at increased risk of meningitis. Decreased immune system: People with compromised immune systems may have a higher risk of contracting meningitis. AIDS, alcoholism, diabetes, and use of immunosuppressant drugs can compromise immune systems.
اطلب فحص سمع طفلك. أجرِ أشعة الرنين المغناطيسي لفحص الضغط داخل الجمجمة. طعّم طفلك. امنع الاختلاط بمصابين أو ناقلي العدوى. تعرف على عوامل الخطر.