Maria Herranz Gomeza professional trampoline gymnast, died at 17 years of age due to meningitis, a disease that ended his life in less than 24 hours; as reported by the City Council of Cabanillas del Campo, in Guadalajara (Spain).
The athlete died in the early hours of Wednesday, April 17 to Thursday, April 18 at the University Hospital of Guadalajara.
The death of María Herranz has raised questions about this disease that took her life so abruptly. What exactly is meningitis and what are its symptoms?
What is meningitis
Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges.. This condition can be caused by various infectious agents, with viral meningitis being responsible for the majority of cases in the United States.
However, it can also be triggered by bacteria, parasites and fungi, which underlines the importance of prompt medical attention in case of suspicion.
One of the common questions about meningitis is whether it is contagious, especially in its viral form. Although viral meningitis can spread through close contact with an infected person, not everyone exposed will develop the disease.
It is essential to maintain good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people, to reduce the risk of contagion.
Symptoms of meningitis:
The symptoms of meningitis can vary depending on age and the underlying cause of the infection. In people over two years of age, common signs include sudden high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, among others. In newborns and babies, symptoms can be more subtle but still dangerous, such as high fever, constant crying, difficulty waking up, and stiffness in the body and neck.
With a broader understanding of this disease and its symptoms, we can be better prepared to recognize early warning signs and seek timely medical care.
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