Meningitis is a serious disease caused by inflammation of the meninges— the membranes that protect and cover the brain and spinal cord. There are several different causes of meningitis, but it usually is the result of an infection (bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic). Because the severity and treatment for meningitis varies depending upon the specific cause, it is important to speak to a physician in order to determine the source of the infection.
Symptoms of various types of meningitis can include:
- Nausea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Confusion
While infants are at higher risk of meningitis, they may not exhibit all of the symptoms above when they contract the disease. For more information on the different types of meningitis, visit the Centers for Disease Control website at: www.cdc.gov.