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What is meningitis? -

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes (or meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord.

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Various possible causes -

There are various different viruses and bacteria that can cause meningitis, with viral meningitis being more common and less serious.

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Potentially very serious -

Bacterial meningitis, for example an infection caused by meningococcal bacteria, is rare, but it can be very serious if left untreated.

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Who is at risk? -

Although meningitis can affect anyone, it is more common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults.

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If left untreated... -

If left untreated, meningitis can result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves, or even in death. Thankfully, there are vaccinations that offer some protection.

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General symptoms -

The symptoms of meningitis come on suddenly and can include a high temperature (fever), vomiting, a headache, drowsiness or unresponsiveness, or seizures (fits).

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Specific symptoms -

Other, more specific, symptoms can include a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it, a stiff neck, and an aversion to bright lights.

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Important to remember -

It is important to note that not every person with meningitis will develop all the symptoms, and they can present in any order. It is crucial that you seek urgent medical attention as soon as you suspect you or someone you look after may have meningitis.

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Trust your instincts -

Trust your instincts and do not wait for all symptoms to appear; a person with meningitis can get a lot worse very quickly.

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Viral causes -

As previously mentioned, meningitis can be caused by a virus or bacteria. Examples of viruses that can cause meningitis include mumps and herpes simplex.

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Bacterial causes -

Examples of bacteria that can cause meningitis include pneumococcal bacteria, haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria, and meningococcal bacteria.

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Cases on the rise -

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of meningitis caused by meningococcal bacteria are on the rise.

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CDC statistics -

In April 2024, the CDC reported that as of March 25 of that year there had been 143 cases reported in the US, versus the 81 cases that had been reported during the same period in 2023.

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Serogroup Y -

According to the report, the reported cases were mainly caused by meningococcal bacteria Y (there are also other types, called A, B, C, W, X, and Z).

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Treatment -

Doctors carry out several tests to confirm suspected cases of meningitis and to work out whether the disease is the result of a viral or bacterial infection.

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Tests -

These tests may include a physical examination to check for symptoms, a blood test to check for viruses and bacteria, and a CT scan to check for any problems with the brain.

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Hospitalization -

In cases of bacterial meningitis, patients are always treated in hospital, since the disease can cause very serious problems and therefore requires close monitoring.

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Treating bacterial meningitis -

The treatments for bacterial meningitis include antibiotics given intravenously, intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, and in some cases steroid medication to help reduce swelling around the brain.

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Treating viral meningitis -

In cases of confirmed viral meningitis, patients are often allowed to go home, since the disease will usually get better on its own without causing any serious problems.

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Complications -

Although most people make a full recovery from meningitis, it can cause serious long-term problems if not treated in time.

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Statistics -

Indeed, the NHS estimates that one person in every two or three who survives bacterial meningitis is left with one or more permanent problems. Complications are much rarer in cases of viral meningitis.

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Hearing loss -

A common complication of meningitis is hearing loss. In fact, people who have had meningitis will usually undergo a hearing test a few weeks after recovery, to check for any problems.

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Common complications -

Other common issues include recurrent seizures (epilepsy), problems with memory and concentration, and problems with coordination, movement, and balance. This list of potential complications is by no means exhaustive. In fact, there are a wide range of potential issues that can require additional treatment and long-term support.

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Prevention -

Given that meningitis can be caused by several different viruses and bacteria, there are several different vaccinations that offer protection against it.

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MenB vaccine -

The MenB vaccine, for example, offers protection against meningococcal group B bacteria, which is a common cause of meningitis in young children.

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MenACWY vaccine -

Then there is the MenACWY vaccine, which offers protection against meningococcal bacteria groups A, C, W, and Y.

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MenACWY vaccine -

In the UK, for instance, this vaccine is offered to teenagers aged 13-14. It is also offered to young adults up to the age of 25 who have never had a vaccine for MenC.

Sources: (CDC) (NHS) (Mayo Clinic)

See also: Bacteria that help humans

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