Category Archives: Infection

What Causes Meningitis? These Infections, Injuries, and Substances May Be to Blame

Several types of bacteria and viruses are common culprits. Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While bacterial meningitis is a well-known cause of this infection, it’s crucial to recognize that various agents, injuries, and infections can trigger this serious […]

What You Need to Know About Meningitis

This serious, sometimes deadly infection can strike without warning and progress within hours. Meningitis, a term encompassing various conditions characterized by inflammation of the meninges, is a critical medical concern. These protective membranes surround the brain and spinal cord, and when they become inflamed, it can lead to a range of serious health issues. Dr. […]

US releases first doxyPEP guidelines for preventing sexually transmitted infections

On October 2, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued proposed guidelines for using the antibiotic doxycycline as post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), an approach known as doxyPEP. The guidelines are the first national effort to define how to use the new prevention tool, and they likely will […]

Bacterial Meningitis Can Be Life-Threatening—What to Know About Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Vaccination protects against certain bacteria that can cause these infections. Meningitis, an affliction that strikes fear into the hearts of many, is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes encasing the brain and spinal cord. It is a condition that can manifest with a variety of triggers, ranging from viruses and bacteria to fungi […]

What Is Spinal Meningitis? Here’s How People Get This Uncommon but Serious Infection

It’s important to seek immediate medical care, no matter what the cause. Spinal meningitis, a severe and potentially life-threatening infection, occurs when pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites, cause inflammation of the delicate membranes, known as meninges, that envelop the brain and spinal cord. This condition can affect anyone, and its consequences are […]

What Is a Bacterial Meningitis Rash—The Symptom That Can Signal a Medical Emergency

Bleeding under the skin that produces a blotchy or pinprick-like rash may signal a serious bacterial infection. If you ever happen upon a peculiar rash, resembling pink or purple pinpricks on your skin, it’s paramount not to disregard it. This seemingly innocuous rash can be a telltale symptom of bacterial meningitis, a grave medical condition […]

These Are the 6 Main Types of Meningitis, According to Neurologists and Infectious Disease Doctors

Viruses, bacteria, and other culprits can cause this type of inflammation. In the intricate symphony of bodily functions, from the simplest act of breathing to the most profound cognitive processes, your central nervous system reigns supreme. Comprising the formidable duo of the brain and spinal cord, it orchestrates every aspect of your existence. Yet, protecting […]

Chlorhexidine lowers infections, antibiotic-resistant germs in trial

Nursing homes that use chlorhexidine on the skin and nose can prevent infections and lower the amount of antibiotic resistant organisms in the facilities.  The study was published today in the New England Journal of Medicine. The researchers examined approximately 14,000 people and compared bathing routines at 28 nursing homes in California for 18 months. […]

Infants Fed Powdered Infant Formula Get More GI Infections

A study conducted in the United Kingdom found that infants fed powered infant formula contract more gastrointestinal infections than breastfed infants. Part of the problem is contaminated infant feeding equipment. Almost 3/4 of infants in the UK get infant formula in the first 6 weeks. This number rises to 88% by 6 months of age. […]