Meningitis

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the membrane surrounding the nervous system.

Meningitis is usually due to viral (often Coxsackie A virus) or bacterial (Meningococcal, Streptococcal) infections. It may occur spontaneously or develop following surgery or head injury

Viral meningitis is common and mild whereas bacterial meningitis is rarer but far more severe. Fever and shivering, headaches, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia (pain from light and sound), and neck stiffness are observed.

Treatment involves administering medicines which combat the infection (antiviral agents or antibiotics) and which relieve the symptoms. Vaccines are also available to avoid certain infections.