Meningitis

What is meningitis? Simply put meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by both bacteria and viruses, but most commonly bacteria, or more specifically Neisseria meningiditis. Sometimes it is caused by an infection that has spread from one area of the body to these membranes. Once someone has meningitis several other problems may arise, for example septicemia (bacteria in the blood).

This picture shows a rash caused meningococcal septicemia.

How is it spread? Depending on the type, whether bacterial or viral, meningitis can be spread many ways air droplets kissing/close contact contact with bodily wastes sharing food, drink, towels, etc. Not everyone who becomes infected with a virus or bacteria associated with meningitis will actually get it. In most cases the only result will be a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection

Signs and Symptoms These will also vary depending on the bacteria or virus involved fever stiffness in neck jaundice vomiting diarrhea lethargy irritability skin rashes seizures headache photophobia

Bleeding under the skin is a rare, but obvious clue.