Question

Which groups of people are at high risk for meningitis?

1) Alcoholics
2) People over 50 years old
3) People with severe comorbid diseases
4) Immunocompromised individuals

Answer 1

High-risk groups for meningitis include immunocompromised individuals, people living in communal settings such as college dorms, and infants, especially those born prematurely. Alcoholics, older adults, and those with severe comorbidities also face increased risks. Vaccination and prophylactic antibiotics can reduce these risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

Several groups of people are at high risk for meningitis. These include:

1. Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking drugs that suppress the immune system.
2. People living in close quarters, like college students in dorms or military personnel in barracks, where bacterial meningitis spreads more easily.
3. Infants, particularly those born prematurely or to mothers with certain infections.

Additionally, alcoholics, people over 50 years old, and those with severe comorbid diseases may be more susceptible to meningitis due to weakened immune systems or lessened overall health.

Preventive measures like vaccination and prophylactic antibiotics for close contacts of infected individuals can reduce the risk of developing meningitis.

It is important to understand that bacterial meningitis is particularly serious and requires immediate treatment. Common bacteria responsible for meningitis, such as Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, spread through respiratory secretions and can cause severe health complications if not addressed promptly.