people whose bodies have trouble fighting infections.

Anyone can get meningitis

eek medical care quickly

A sudden fever A severe headache A stiff neck

Vaccines can prevent some of the bacterial infections that cause meningitis.

Chemical irritationDrug allergiesFungiParasitesTumors

It usually occurs in the late summer and early fall.

Symptoms usually come on quickly, and may include:

Haemophilus vaccine (HiB vaccine) given to children helpsPneumococcal vaccine is given to children and adultsMeningococcal vaccines is given to children and adults; some communities hold vaccination campaigns after an outbreak of meningococcal meningitis. Household members and others in close contact with people who have meningococcal meningitis should receive antibiotics to prevent becoming infected.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial meningitis

Fluids through a vein (IV)Medicines to treat symptoms, such as brain swelling, shock, and seizures

Without prompt treatment

Brain damageBuildup of fluid between the skull and brain (subdural effusion)Hearing lossHydrocephalusSeizures

Fever and chills, especially in newborns and childrenMental status changesNausea and vomitingSensitivity to light (photophobia)Severe headacheStiff neck (meningismus)