They may feed poorly and not be comforted by holding. In some severe forms of meningitis, particularly meningococcal meningitis, there may be shock, confusion, decreased responsiveness, and a spreading purplish rash. Children with viral meningitis tend to appear somewhat less ill. Along with some of the symptoms mentioned above, they might complain of a severe headache and light bothering their eyes. Diagnosis and Treatment Children with meningitis need immediate medical attention and are often admitted to hospital.
Doctors confirm a diagnosis of meningitis by physical examination and usually a lumbar puncture.
In mild cases of viral meningitis, after a thorough evaluation, doctors often treat the infection with bed rest, fluids, and careful observation. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics given intravenously. The specific type of antibiotic chosen to start treatment depends on a number of things, including the child's initial symptoms, age, and whether there are any other medical conditions present. Medication may also be needed to decrease brain inflammation. If the child has seizures, medication to prevent seizures may be given.