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Meningitis is a medical condition that involves inflammation of the meninges, or membranes, surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The inflammation is caused by an infection that can be either bacterial or viral. In newborn children the bacterial version can be passed from the mother to their baby.
It is the responsibility of the OB-GYN and primary care physician to test the mother for bacterial meningitis. From there they should test, and accurately diagnose the baby. Failure to do so may constitute medical malpractice and entitle you to damages, medical benefits and financial compensation.
If your child has suffered injury, illness or death due to a failure to diagnose meningitis you should immediately speak with a lawyer at Shelsby & Leoni.
Types of Bacterial Meningitis Infections
Group B streptococcus is a very common bacteria found in many women. Simply by having it having the bacteria present does not mean the woman will become ill, nor does it mean that you will ultimately pass it on to their newborn child.
Doctors should test pregnant women for the various bacteria that cause meningitis at weeks 35-37. If the bacteria that cause meningitis are found you will be given a cycle of antibiotics to lessen the chances that your baby becomes infected.
Symptoms of Meningitis in Newborns
Common symptoms that may indicate meningitis in your child may be:
- Fever
- Labored breathing
- Loss of appetite or trouble eating
- Sensitivity to light
- Stiff neck
- Irritability
- Exhaustion
- Seizures
Your baby may ultimately suffer brain damage, or even death, as a result of bacterial meningitis infection. If your baby exhibited any of these symptoms and your doctor failed to test, or properly diagnose, your child for meningitis you may be able to seek legal recourse in the form of a medical malpractice lawsuit.
Call Our Delaware Bacterial Meningitis Attorneys Now
Shelsby & Leoni handle medical malpractice claims and medical negligence cases on a contingency fee basis meaning they charge nothing unless they recover for you. We also offer free consultations to birth injury victims and their families. Contact us today.
