What are the complications associated with meningitis?

Q: My child is 15 days old. After the spinal fluid check a bacterial infection was found in his brain. Every morning and evening some medicine is injected. Doctors say that there is nothing to worry about. I want to know the details of this infection. Will this affect his health in future?

A:Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the fluid that surrounds the brain. This can be associated with fits at the time of the illness or later morbidity in the form of hearing deficits or mental handicap. If treated early and adequately it may resolve without any long term problems at all. Treatment is with suitable antibiotics for usually 3 weeks.