Meningitis is an infection that causes swelling in the meninges, which are membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. It is mainly caused by bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

What is meningitis?
The swelling of the meninges membrane around the brain and the spinal cord is called meningitis. In most cases, it is mainly caused by viral infections which can be treated in a few weeks. In rare cases, this condition is caused by bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections, which can be life-threatening and needs immediate medical attention. The symptoms of meningitis are a stiff neck, vomiting, confusion, sleepiness, sensitivity to light, among others. Some strains of meningitis can be contagious and can spread by sneezing, coughing or close contact.

Different types of meningitis

• Bacterial meningitis: This condition is commonly caused after an ear infection, sinus infection, throat infection or a skull fracture and is fatal and life-threatening. If there are symptoms of severe fever, vomiting, and complete lack of energy, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately. Bacterial meningitis is commonly caused by direct bacterial invasion of the brain. In some cases, it is caused by bacteria that enter bloodstreams and reach the brain or spinal cord, causing serious brain damage.
• Fungal meningitis:  This most commonly occurs in people with a weak immune system and can be fatal if not treated for a long time. The most common fungal form of the disease is cryptococcal meningitis, which affects people who have immune diseases such as AIDS.
• Viral meningitis:  It is common and less serious. It mostly clears on its own, and it may also trigger other diseases such as diarrhea.
• Parasitic meningitis:  This type of meningitis is very rarely found. It is usually spread by animals, as these parasites infect animals and the disease is passed on to humans through the food they eat such as meat, poultry or dairy.

Complications of meningitis
Meningitis causes serious complications if not treated at the right time. Some of the critical complications are:

• Brain damage
• Neurological damage
• Kidney failure
• Memory loss
• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Arthritis
• Migraine or headaches
• Shock
• Death

Who can get affected by meningitis?
While the condition can affect individuals of all ages, races, and sex, some demographics are more susceptible to it than others. Infants, children, and teens are at the highest risk of developing this condition. Other factors leading to one getting meningitis are:

• Living in a small community:  It usually occurs in places that do not have basic hygiene and it also affects people living in a small and close community. Bacteria spreads easily by respiration, and also with direct saliva contact like spoons, bottles, lip balms, etc.
• Avoiding vaccinations:  Children and adults who neglect the dosage of vaccinations for meningitis.
• Weak immune system:  People suffering from AIDS, cancer or other immune deficiency disorder are at higher risk of developing meningitis.
• Pregnancy:  Pregnant women with listeriosis infection are at higher risk of meningitis.

Prevention of meningitis

• Individuals with a weak immune system are advised to lead a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of meningitis.
• Being regularly vaccinated against the disease is recommended.
• Avoid close contact with people infected by a bacterial meningococcal infection.
• Do not share drinks, lip balms or spoons with infected individuals as this may increase the risk of meningitis.