Meningitis is inflammation (swelling) of the lining of the brain and spinal cord.
- Many different things can cause meningitis.
- An accurate diagnosis is important because treatment depends on the cause.
Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious illness that is a medical emergency and should be treated as soon as possible.
- It is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis (or “Bacterial Meningitis”). It often causes meningitis, but it can also cause bloodstream infections, pneumonia, joint infections, and other illness.
- Up to one out of seven (10-14 percent) of those who get the disease die.
- Of those who survive, up to one out of five have permanent disabilities, such as deafness, brain damage, loss of limbs, or seizures.