LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Meningitis: Antibiotics
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Meningitis caused by viruses is usually a self-limiting illness. The viruses involved are usually either entero- or rhinoviruses, in other words the viruses that cause stomach ailments and the common cold. The symptoms of viral meningitis include fever, headache, stiff neck, fatigue, rash and sore throat. Viral meningitis is usually not communicable. Antibiotics are not helpful, and antivirals are usually not necessary except in severe cases. Supportive care includes pain medications, occasionally corticosteroids, fluids and rest.
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Suspicion of meningitis is generally based on the nature of the symptoms and findings on physical examination. Meningitis is a medical emergency, and referral to hospital is indicated. If meningitis is suspected based on clinical examination, early administration of antibiotics is recommended, as the condition may deteriorate rapidly. In the hospital setting, initial management consists of stabilization (e.g. securing the airway in a depressed level of consciousness, administration of intravenous fluids in hypotension or shock), followed by antibiotics if not already administered.
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[I]n 1937, Dr. Branham decided to try the newly discovered sulfonamide drugs on meningitis. The sulfonamides were the first antibiotics to be widely used. Dr. Branham found that they could be used effectively against the bacteria that cause meningitis. Largely as a result of her research, meningitis was kept under control during World War II (1939–45).
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Viral meningitis is more common and usually occurs in the late Summer and early Fall. Sometimes, abdominal discomfort, chest pain, or a rash will be present. The central nervous system may be involved with possible alteration of consciousness or paralysis; ... these more serious conditions are infrequent. Most cases of viral meningitis run a short, uneventful course. Since this is a virus (like the common cold), antibiotics are not effective. Likewise, persons who have had contact with viral meningitis patients do not require any treatment.
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Treatment of meningitis is dependent on its type or cause. Some common treatments for viral meningitis include rest, over-the-counter medications and fluid consumption. Bacterial meningitis is typically treated with antibiotics. The combinations prescribed depend on the infection source, severity and age of the patient, among other variables. Vaccinations are available to prevent some forms of bacterial meningitis. Avoiding viruses that cause viral meningitis may ... reduce the risk of infection.
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Treatment for bacterial meningitis usually involves intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The earlier the treatment is initiated, the better your child's outcome. Your child's physician may start treatment with antibiotics before the results of the lumbar puncture are available. If your child is very ill, a lumbar puncture may not be recommended and treatment with antibiotics will be started immediately.
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