Could I possibly have meningitis?!?

[Diego G]

My best friend has a younger brother in 1st grade. I was visiting her today and her younger brother came home with a notice from the school or school district or whatever, saying that one of the students at the school he attends actually HAS meningitis. The notice recommended that he be tested for it, although I was told that the child with it was in a higher grade level, and that my friend's younger brother probably didn't come in much contact with him throughout his day at summer school (he has one class for four hours before he gets home). Still, is there a chance that I might develop it? My uncle was diagnosed with it a couple years ago, and he nearly DIED, which makes me really worried. Any help?

[SecretAgentMan]

ask the doctor!

[mom of twins]

If you didn't come in contact with the child that has it it is highly unlikely that you will get it. However, if there is any question whether you did or not have your parents take you to the doctor and you can get a shot to prevent you from getting it. It is very serious and could be fatal if not caught quickly. But try not to worry I think that you will be just fine.

[Irina MD]

It is very very doubtful that you would get meningitis from a kid who most likely doesn't have meningitis either. Are you developing any symptoms? Head ache, fever, neck stiffness??? I honestly don't think that you have anything to worry about but if you want to relieve any agony about this go to your doctor and he will give you prophylactic course of antibiotics.

[kyle d]

Since your friend's brother was not in close contact with the sick kid, it is unlikely that he was carrying the bacteria. Bacterial meningitis usually starts as respiratory cold-like symptoms and fever and then you develop a bad headache and/or a stiff neck. If this happens don't delay seeking medical attention.

[C Sunshine]

Get to doctor, get possible vaccine,