Meningitis

There are many different bacteria and viruses that can cause meningitis. In most instances, it is more common for these viruses or bacteria to cause some other illness, such as an ear infection, pneumonia or other illness. It is not known why one individual develops meningitis when others exposed to the same virus or bacteria don't get as sick, or don't get sick at all.

The most common causes of bacterial meningitis:

  • Pneumococcal Disease (Streptococcus pneumoniae)
    Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by a type of bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, or meningitis.

  • Meningococcal Disease
    Meningococcal disease is an illness caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. It often causes meningitis but it can also cause bloodstream infections, pneumonia, joint infections, and other illness.

  • Haemophilus influenzae, type b (Hib)
    Until recently, Hib was one of the most important causes of bacterial infection in young children. Hib may cause a variety of diseases such as meningitis (inflammation of the coverings of the spinal column and brain) , blood stream infections, pneumonia, arthritis and infections of other parts of the body.

  • The most common causes of viral meningitis is a group of viruses known as enteroviruses, which includes coxsackieviruses and echoviruses.

Some forms of meningitis may pose a risk for causing serious illness among close contacts. These include meningococcal meningitis and, in some specific circumstances, H. influenzae type b meningitis. In these instances, there are preventative actions that are recommended to protect close contacts.

Meningitis Basics

Updated Tuesday, 16-Nov-2010 14:16:39 CST