Meningitis

• The Disease
  • Types
    • Bacterial meningitis
      • Meningococcal
      • Pneumococcal
      • Hib
      • Group B Streptococcus
      • Tuberculosis Meningitis
      • E.coli
      • Listeria
      • Staphylococcal
    • Viral meningitis
    • Other Forms
  • Personal stories
  • Symptoms
  • After effects
  • Facts and figures
  • Surveillance
  • FAQs
  • Medical Glossary
• The Research
• Help & Advice
• Education

E.coli

E. Coli meningitis is caused by the bacerium Eschericia coli.

E. Coli bacteria live in the large intestine and there are more than 150 different types. The majority of cases of E. coli meningitis are caused by a strain called E. coli K1.

In the UK, most cases of E. Coli meningitis occur in newborn babies. It can also occur in those with suppressed immune systems weakened by AIDS, cancer, diabetes and other disorders, plus some immune suppressing drugs. It can also be as a result of a head injury or surgery to the head, which allows the bacteria to enter. CSF shunts (which are used to drain excess fluid from around the brain to relieve pressure) can also allow this to happen.

Infection in newborns occurs during delivery, from bacteria normally present in the birth canal. Premature and low-weight babies are at a much higher risk. E. Coli meningitis can be treated with antibiotics. Approximately 20% of newborns die and a large number who survive sustain permanent brain damage. Because most cases occur in premature infants it is difficult to determine how much of the damage is due to meningitis and how much is the result of premature birth.

When infection occurs at birth or in the first two days after birth, it is more likely to cause septicaemia (blood-poisoning). Infection in babies more than 48 hours old is more likely to cause meningitis.

Before 1983, E. coli was the most common kind of neonatal meningitis in the UK but Group B Streptococcal Meningitis (GBS) is now more prevalent. Estimates suggest that E. coli accounts for around 20% of neonatal meningitis.

No vaccine has yet been developed to protect against E. Coli meningitis although it is hoped a vaccine for expectant mothers can be developed in the future to protect against this disease.