Summary: | Bacterial meningitis is one of the most important medical emergencies, a life-threatening condition that leads to death in all the cases in untreated patients. In infants and young children, especially under 5 years old, the most encountered and severe forms are caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Hemophilus influenzae type b. The risk of neurological impairment after an acute episode of bacterial meningitis is relatively high. Worldwide, prevention through vaccination decreased dramatically incidence and mortality related to these disease. In Romania vaccination for Neisseria meningitides is optional available for just 6 months, vaccination for Streptococcus pneumoniae by one year, and for Haemophylus influenzae type B is available over 10 years.
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