Meningitis facts for kids

This map shows where meningitis is more common. Red areas mean it's very common, brown areas sometimes have outbreaks, and grey areas have fewer cases each year.

Meningitis is a serious infection that affects the protective layers around your brain and spinal cord. These layers are called the meninges. Their job is to keep your central nervous system safe.

Most often, tiny living things called microorganisms cause this infection. These can be viruses, bacteria, fungi, or even parasites. Viruses are the most common cause of meningitis, followed by bacteria. Meningitis can be very dangerous and can affect people of all ages.

Some types of meningitis can spread easily from person to person. Because of this, in some countries, doctors must report cases of meningitis to health authorities. This helps prevent more people from getting sick.

What are the Signs of Meningitis?

If someone has meningitis, they might show several signs. It's important to know these so you can get help quickly.

• A high fever, sometimes with chills.
• A very bad headache.
• Feeling sick to your stomach (nausea) and vomiting.
• Feeling very sleepy or confused.
• Having a stiff neck (though not everyone with meningitis has this).
• Twitching or seizures.
• Sore throat.
• Acting confused or seeing things that aren't there (especially in children).

Types of Meningitis

There are two main types of meningitis: bacterial and viral. Knowing the difference is important because they are treated differently.

Bacterial Meningitis

This type is caused by bacteria. It is very serious and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Most people with bacterial meningitis need urgent medical care, often in a hospital. Doctors usually treat it with strong medicines called antibiotics.

Viral Meningitis

This type is caused by viruses. It is usually less serious than bacterial meningitis. Most people with viral meningitis get better on their own without special treatment. Sometimes, if a specific virus like the herpes virus causes it, doctors might use antiviral medicines.

Related Topics

• Encephalitis: This is when the brain itself becomes swollen or inflamed.

Images for kids

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  Streptococcus pneumoniae—a common bacterium that can cause meningitis.

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  Cloudy fluid from the spinal cord of a person with meningitis caused by Streptococcus.

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  A special stain of meningococci bacteria, which often cause meningitis. They look pink and are often in pairs.

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  The structure of ceftriaxone, an antibiotic used to treat bacterial meningitis.

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  A map showing where meningococcal meningitis is common.     meningitis belt     epidemic zones     sporadic cases only