What is the most common and severe type of meningitis in infants and children?

Choice A rationale:

In a temperate region during summer, viral meningitis is more likely to be prevalent in the population. Viral meningitis is most commonly caused by enteroviruses, and these infections tend to be more common in the summer and early fall. Enteroviruses thrive in warm and humid conditions, contributing to the seasonal variation in viral meningitis cases.

Choice B rationale:

Bacterial meningitis can occur throughout the year and is not specifically associated with summer or temperate regions. Bacterial meningitis can result from various bacterial pathogens and is usually a more severe and life-threatening form of meningitis compared to viral meningitis.

Choice C rationale:

Fungal meningitis is not typically associated with temperate regions during the summer. Fungal meningitis is more commonly seen in individuals with compromised immune systems or in specific geographic regions with a higher prevalence of fungal infections.

Choice D rationale:

Parasitic meningitis is not prevalent in temperate regions during the summer. Parasitic meningitis is rare and is usually associated with specific parasitic infections, such as those caused by Naegleria fowleri or Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which are typically found in tropical or subtropical regions.

Choice A rationale:

Antibiotic therapy for the family members is not the most appropriate preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While antibiotics are used to treat the infection, providing antibiotic therapy to family members does not prevent the spread of the bacteria to others.

Choice B rationale:

Prophylaxis for the patient's close contacts is the recommended preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. Close contacts of a patient with this type of meningitis, such as household members and daycare contacts, are at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Administering prophylactic antibiotics to these individuals can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria and reduce the likelihood of developing the infection.

Choice C rationale:

Hygiene education for school staff and students is not directly related to preventing the spread of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While hygiene education is essential for preventing the spread of infections in general, it is not specific to this particular type of meningitis.

Choice D rationale:

Outbreak management protocols for the community may be necessary if there is an outbreak of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. However, this choice does not address the immediate preventive measure needed for the diagnosed pediatric patient and their close contacts.

Choice E rationale:

Vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis is not directly relevant to preventing Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. These are two different types of bacteria that cause different forms of meningitis, and vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis would not protect against Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis.