Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes, which envelop the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. It is a life-threatening infection and can occur due to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or even non-infectious sources and can have severe consequences.

Common symptoms of meningitis may include:

• Neck stiffness
• Confusion
• Fever
• Headache
• Altered mental status
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Based on the cause, meningitis can be of different types, namely:

• Bacterial
• Viral
• Fungal
• Parasitic
• Amebic
• Non-infectious

Causes of meningitis may include:

Infectious diseases

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Fungi

Non-infectious conditions

• Cancer
• Certain medicines like NSAIDs and antibiotics
• Systemic lupus erythematosus

Several preventive measures can help reduce the risk of meningitis and may include:

• Meningococcal and pneumococcal meningitis are two bacterial meningitis forms that can be prevented by vaccination.
• Regularly washing your hands can help stop the transmission of infectious pathogens by practicing excellent hygiene.
• Additionally, it’s crucial to keep your distance from somebody with meningococcal or respiratory infections.