Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges.

contact with a person who has viral meningitis, you may become infected with the virus

Four cases of meningococcal disease have been reported

A number of strains of bacteria can cause acute bacterial meningitis.

meningitis in infants, young children and adults in the United States

Chronic forms of meningitis occur when slow-growing organisms invade the membranes and fluid surrounding your brain