Description Types Symptoms Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Complications Prevention Read This Next Part 1 of 8: DescriptionWhat Is Meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges.

membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges.

the membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord.

most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections.

s contagious.

may occur when fluid surrounding the meninges becomes infected.

most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections.

is contagious.

can be transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Other causes include: cancer chemical irritation fungi drug allergies Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency.

can be transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Other causes include: cancer chemical irritation fungi drug allergies

can be fatal

Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency. It can be fatal.

can be fatal or cause great

harm without prompt treatment;

about 15% of those who survive are left with disabilities that include deafness, brain damage, and neurological problems.

the symptoms of meningococcal meningitis

Bacteria and viruses are the two main causes of meningitis.

In children and teens, meningococcus is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis. In adults, it is the second most common cause.

may cause infection in a part of the body -- the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or respiratory tract, for instance.

then spread through the bloodstream to the nervous system

can also enter the nervous system directly after severe head trauma, surgery, or infection.

Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis may vary from case to case. The more common signs and symptoms include: General poor feeling Sudden high fever Severe, persistent headache Neck stiffness Nausea or vomiting Discomfort in bright lights Drowsiness or difficulty awakening Joint pain Confusion or other mental changes A reddish or purple skin rashis a very important sign to watch for.

may be a sign of blood poisoning.

does not turn white when you press a glass against it,

a medical emergency.

Other symptoms of meningitis or blood poisoning may include: Tense or bulging soft spot (in babies) High-pitched or moaning cry (in babies) Stiff, jerky movements or floppiness (in babies or toddlers) Irritability Fast breathing Lethargy or excessive sleepiness Blotchy skin, turning pale or blue Shivering, or cold hands and feet Seizure