Profound loss after bacterial meningitis

Vignette

A 3-year-old is recovering from pneumococcal meningitis. Post-illness assessment shows profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The family asks whether anything can be done.

Test findings

Objective and behavioural tests confirm profound bilateral SNHL acquired after the illness. MRI shows early signal change within the cochleae.

Diagnostic question

Why is this situation managed with particular urgency?