Which of the following statements about meningitis prevention is accurate?

Choice A rationale:

Bacterial meningitis is the most common and severe type of meningitis in infants and children. The causative bacteria can include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae type b, among others.

Choice B rationale:

Fungal meningitis is less common than bacterial meningitis and is usually associated with specific risk factors, such as immunosuppression or exposure to certain environmental fungi.

Choice C rationale:

Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis, but it is usually milder and often resolves without specific treatment. Enteroviruses are the most frequent cause of viral meningitis in infants and children.

Choice D rationale:

Parasitic meningitis is a rare form of the disease and is usually associated with specific parasites, such as the amoeba Naegleria fowleri or the parasite Trypanosoma.

Choice E rationale:

Meningitis of unknown origin refers to cases where the cause of meningitis remains unidentified after thorough investigations. It is not a specific type of meningitis but rather a descriptive term for cases with uncertain etiology.

Choice A rationale:

A cloudy appearance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can indicate the presence of white blood cells and bacteria, suggesting an infection. However, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be seen in viral meningitis or non-infectious conditions like multiple sclerosis.

Choice B rationale:

Increased pressure in the CSF may occur in meningitis due to the inflammation and accumulation of fluid. While it can raise suspicion for meningitis, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be observed in other intracranial conditions.

Choice C rationale:

Decreased glucose levels in the CSF are a characteristic finding in bacterial or fungal meningitis. The invading bacteria or fungi consume glucose, leading to lower levels in the CSF compared to normal blood glucose levels. This finding helps differentiate bacterial or fungal meningitis from viral meningitis, where glucose levels are usually normal.

Choice D rationale:

Elevated protein levels in the CSF can be seen in various conditions, including meningitis. While it indicates increased inflammation and breakdown of cells, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can be present in viral or other forms of meningitis.