In infants, the soft spot on the head may bulge and the child may have a continuous shrill cry. To reduce fever and pain, give a non-aspirin medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Seek immediate medical care for these symptoms. Diagnosing meningitis requires testing fluid drawn from the spinal column with a needle. This procedure is called a lumbar puncture or a spinal tap.
Bacterial meningitis is a very serious illness and requires hospitalization.
Treatment with antibiotics reduces the number of deaths as well as the incidence of complications such as brain damage and paralysis. Immunization against HiB is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, and is required by most schools and many day care centers. A preventive measure is to keep immunizations up to date. All Rights Reserved.