Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is not as common as viral meningitis, but it is more serious. Several types of bacteria can cause meningitis. Knowing the right type is crucial for proper treatment:

• Neisseria meningitidis causes meningococcal meningitis, a common form of meningitis in children and young adults, and the only type that occurs in outbreaks. It is highly contagious.
• Haemophilus influenzae was the most common cause in infants and children under 6 years old before 1986, when a vaccine (HiB) was introduced. The vaccine has mostly eradicated this kind of meningitis in countries where it is given to infants.
• Streptococcus pneumonia is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children. It may occur along with an ear or sinus infection or pneumonia.
• Listeria monocytogenes is a common form of bacteria that can be found all around us. It does not tend to infect most people, but the very young and very old, as well as pregnant women, can be at risk.
• Staphylococcus aureus may be seen following a head injury or brain surgery.

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