Meningitis

Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis can either be caused by viral, bacteria, fungi, or parasitic infection. Meningitis can also be caused by non–infectious situations.

• The most common causes of meningitis are viral infections that usually get better without treatment. Most viral meningitis is caused by enteroviruses.
• Bacterial meningitis infections are usually severe. Bacteria meningitis is an emergency and will require immediate treatment in a hospital. Early diagnosis and treatment of bacterial meningitis is important in preventing serious complications.

You will not be able to tell if you have bacterial or viral meningitis by how you feel. Your doctor will have to determine the cause.

The severity of illness and the treatment for meningitis will differ depending on the cause. It is crucial to know what is causing the meningitis. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of meningitis.

Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Viral meningitis

Meningitis is commonly caused by viral infections. This type of meningitis usually will get better without any treatment. Most viral meningitis are caused by enteroviruses. Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis, and is milder. It usually occurs in the late summer and early fall. It commonly affects children and adults under age 30. The symptoms of viral meningitis usually lasts from 7 to 10 days.

• Enteroviruses are most often spread from person to person through fecal contamination (which can occur when changing a diaper or using the toilet and not properly washing hands afterwards). Enteroviruses can also be spread through respiratory secretions (saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus) of an infected person.

Bacterial meningitis infections are very serious, and may result in death or brain damage, even if treated. Bacteria meningitis is an emergency which requires immediate treatment in a hospital. Symptoms usually appear quickly or over several days. Symptoms typically develop within 3-7 days after being exposed to bacteria.

• There are several pathogens (types of germs) that can cause bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis can be caused by Haemophilus influenzae (most often caused by type b, Hib), Streptococcus pneumoniae, group B Streptococcus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Neisseria meningitidis. Common causes of bacterial meningitis vary by age group.

Fungal meningitis is not contagious. Fungal meningitis can be caused by Cryptococcus, Histoplasma, Blastomyces, or Coccidioides. People with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV infection or cancer, are at higher risk for developing fungal meningitis.

Parasitic meningitis is caused by Naegleria fowleri and enters the body through the nose.

Meningitis may also be caused by:

• Chemical irritation
• Drug allergies
• Cancer
• Physical injury
• Certain drugs

Other types of viruses that can cause meningitis:

• Herpes viruses (People with cold sores or genital herpes are not at a greater risk of developing herpes meningitis)
• Viruses that cause mumps and HIV
• West Nile virus which is spread by mosquito bites

Seek emergency care immediately for a sudden high fever with a severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, or a rash that does not fade under pressure. Bacterial meningitis is life-threatening and needs urgent treatment.