refers to inflammation of the meninges, cover the brain and spinal cord. The inflammation is caused by bacterial infection, most commonly Neisseria meningitides (the meningococcus), Haemophilus influenza, or Streptococcus pneumonia (the pneumococcus). Meningococcal meningitis is contagious because the bacteria are present in the throat in addition to the cerebrospinal fluid. Common symptoms, which can result in death, include: fever, headache, nausea, weakness, and confusion. See also meningitis- tuberculosis meningitis.
BACTERIAL MENINGITIS: “Bacterial meningitis refers to an infection in the protective cover of the brain, which can cause death if left untreated. “