Can you get bacterial meningitis from having a CT scan & myelogram done?ThanksTracey Johnson

Kathy Huddleson responds:

Bacterial meningitis also known as meningococcal disease is transmitted by direct exchange of respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected persons such as coughing or kissing. The bacteria is not as easily transmitted as the common cold or the flu, (although the symptoms are similar to the flu) and is not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air. As a mom who has lost a child to meningococcal disease, I would suggest that you learn as much about the disease and the preventative measures as possible. Had I known about the disease and about the vaccine that is available, I would have had our daughter immunized and she might not have died. The disease can spread so fast through the body, and therefore it is very important to seek medical help quickly. Our daughter died in less than 18 hours from the time she first started feeling sick. Immunization is the best method to help prevent this disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends immunization for all adolescents 11 through 18 years of age and college freshmen living in dormitories with the conjugate vaccine called Menactra.

Please note that the M.O.M.s are not medical experts and cannot offer medical advice. If you have additional questions, I would recommend that you speak with your health care provider.