Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn has been hospitalized and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis, according to cricket.com.au, citing the Australian Associated Press (AAP).
The 54-year-old, recognized as one of Australia’s best ODI finishers, is being treated in hospital, with wishes from his teammates, fans and the cricket community around the world.
“I am saddened to learn of Damien’s illness. The best wishes from everyone at Cricket Australia and the wider cricket community are with him at this time,” Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said in a statement, according to cricket.com.au.
Adam Gilchrist, a close friend and former teammate of Martyn’s with Australia and Western Australia, confirmed on behalf of Martyn’s family that the 2003 World Cup winner was undergoing treatment in hospital.
“He’s getting the best treatment possible and (Martyn’s partner) Amanda and his family know a lot of people are sending him their prayers and best wishes,” Gilchrist was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
Martyn’s former Australian teammate and former Australian coach Darren Lehmann sent his best wishes to Martyn on social media after his illness was announced.
“Lots of love and prayers for Damien Martyn. Stay strong and fight the legend,” Lehmann wrote on
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known collectively as the meninges. Inflammation is usually caused by an infection, whether viral, bacterial or, more rarely, fungal.
Bacterial meningitis is the most serious form and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Viral meningitis tends to be less serious and often goes away without specific treatment.
Fungal and parasitic meningitis are rare but can occur in people with weakened immune systems.
This illness can affect anyone, but it is especially serious in infants, young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms of meningitis
It is crucial to recognize meningitis early. Some common signs include:
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- High fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Light sensitivity
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Rash in some cases (especially with bacterial meningitis)
In babies and young children, symptoms may also include irritability, poor feeding, and unusual sleepiness.
Causes of meningitis and risk factors
Meningitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, which can be spread through:
- Close contact with an infected person
- Respiratory droplets (coughing or sneezing)
- Contaminated food or water (rare for some types)
Certain groups are more at risk, including:
- University students living in dormitories
- Military recruits
- People with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems
Vaccination plays a crucial role in the prevention of bacterial meningitis, particularly the meningococcal, pneumococcus and Hib vaccines.
Meningitis Treatment and Recovery
Bacterial meningitis is treated urgently with intravenous antibiotics and sometimes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Delays in treatment can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, or death.
Viral meningitis usually resolves on its own, with supportive care such as rest, fluids, and pain relief.
Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases, as seen with Damien Martyn, who is receiving intensive care. Early detection and prompt treatment greatly improve the chances of recovery.
Key takeaways
- Meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord.
- Early symptoms include severe headache, neck stiffness, fever and nausea.
- Bacterial meningitis is life-threatening and requires urgent hospital care.
- Vaccination is a key preventive measure against several types of meningitis.
- Public awareness is crucial to ensure early detection and treatment.
Martyn, known as one of the game’s great stroke-makers, finished his Test career with 4406 runs in 67 matches at an average of 46.37, with 13 centuries. In ODIs, he scored 5,346 runs in 208 matches at an average of 40.80, with five centuries and 37 half-centuries.
Notably, he was named Player of the Series when Australia last won an away series in India, finishing as top scorer in four of Australia’s eight innings during the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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