| Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes | | | | this bacteria in our noses and throats without |
| around the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by | | | | becoming ill. The bacteria can be passed through |
| either a virus or bacteria.Viral meningitis is usually mild | | | | kissing, sneezing and coughing. Only if the bacteria |
| and does not require medical | | | | reaches the blood stream does the person contract |
| treatment. Bacterial meningitis however can be | | | | meningitis and/or septicaemia - most people who get |
| life-threatening and can come on very quickly. | | | | meningitis will also get septicaemia.Mercifully, meningitis |
| Children under five are most likely to be affected and | | | | and septicaemia cases are quite rare. |
| sadly some of these will die.There are several types | | | | However, it is important to know the symptoms as |
| of bacteria that can cause meningitis, the most | | | | early treatment is vital.SymptomsHigh temperature - |
| common being meningococcal bacteria. Most of carry | | | | above 99. |