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Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is also referred to as spinal meningitis.

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When experiencing symptoms of meningitis, it is important to see a doctor immediately.

Antibiotics are typically given to treat meningitis. If antibiotics aren't given immediately, the patient risks the possibility of brain damage and/or death. (More)

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Model of the blood-brain barrier environment during bacterial meningitis.

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"Acute bacterial meningitis" Clinicians are discovering more efficient ways to treat meningitis that will prevent tissue damage. However, scientists need to determine what exactly meningitis is in order to treat it. Recent findings in pathogen studies will help determine the extent of bacterial meningitis.

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Professor Robert S. Heyderman, University College London Hospitals

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Meningitis occurs when the meninges are swollen or inflamed, which is typically caused by infection. Meninges are the membranes that protect the brain and the spinal cord. When the meninges are inflamed, it can quickly become life threatening. Bacterial meningitis is often more serious than viral meningitis, however the symptoms are still painful. Meningitis can also be caused by fungi, parasites, ameba, and cancer. These infections are more rare, however, they can still be life threatening.

Click here to learn more about meningitis.

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Make sure you or your child is up to date on the vaccinations for meningitis, recommended by the CDC:

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13)

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)

Meningococcal conjugate vaccine

Steps that could prevent meningitis:

Washing your hands!

Eating healthy and regularly exercising

Covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing

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These are stories of individuals who have been affected by meningitis. Most of these individuals are survivors, who have lived to tell their stories. However, many of these survivors are still dealing with the side effects from this disease. Some of these stories are told by parents, who were terrified of losing their infants to this deadly disease. A couple of these stories are told by grieving relatives, who lost a loved one to meningitis.

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Read stories written first-hand by those affected both directly and indirectly by meningitis. Read about how meningitis affected their lives afterwards.

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Meningitis Signs and Symptoms (& Why They Occur)

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1. Severe headache
2. New sensitivity to light
3. Difficulty staying awake
4. Stiffening of neck
5. Loss of appetite and nausea
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Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus)