About Meningitis
Meningitis is a very frightening disease because it can strike so quickly, causing someone to become seriously ill within hours and if not treated successfully can cause death and serious disability.
Meningitis does not discriminate and can affect anyone of any age or fethnic origin.
It is a complicated disease to understand as there are several different types of meningitis and associated diseases. Knowing the common symptoms is vital as prompt medical treatment can mean the difference between life and death.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is caused when the lining of the brain and spinal cord - the meninges - become inflamed, usually as a result of an infection.
This infection can be caused by viruses or bacteria and may also develop following serious head injuries.
Meningitis describes any infection to the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (shown in blue on the diagram), which is contained within protective membranes called the meninges. Picture courtesy of www.schoolscience.co.uk
Find out more about viral meningitis and the various types of bacterial meningitis or read our list of Frequently Asked Questions
For information about the current vaccines which are available visit our Vaccine Information page or learn more about Disease Surveillance and Disease Trends
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