Pediatric Guidelines
Meningitis / Encephalitis

Meningitis / Encephalitis

Likely Pathogens

Empiric Antibiotic Options

+/-

+/-

  • Less than or equal to 3 months: 20 mg/kg IV Q8H
  • Greater than 3 months to 12 years: 10 to 15 mg/kg IV Q8H 
  • Over 12 years: 10 mg/kg IV Q8H

Penicillin Allergy

+/-

+/-

  • Less than or equal to 3 months: 20 mg/kg IV Q8H
  • Greater than 3 months to 12 years: 10 to 15 mg/kg IV Q8H
  • Over 12 years: 10 mg/kg IV Q8H

Additional Information

Beta-lactams

  • Penicillins
  • Cephalosporin
  • Carbapenems

Severe Delayed Reactions

  • Stevens-johnson syndrome
  • Toxic epidermal necrolysis
  • Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms