Sometimes meningitis can be a complication of another infection, or a head injury or brain surgery. Viral meningitis also called aseptic meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis and usually less serious. Fungal meningitis is rare and usually only affects you if your immune system has been weakened, for example in those with conditions such as diabetes or HIV, or in very elderly people. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Related Disorders Symptoms of the following disorders may resemble those of Meningitis. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Click here to view the Online Resources of Infectious Diseases. Prevention The most serious forms of meningitis are those caused by bacteria and spread from person to person. Oxford handbook of clinical medicine. Affected Populations In the United States, approximately 2, sporadic cases of Bacterial Meningitis are reported each year. Early treatment can sometimes prevent serious complications. If meningitis is suspected, the doctor will order tests, probably including a lumbar puncture spinal tap to collect a sample of spinal fluid. Individuals who may require immunization include the following:.

Topics: Bacterial Infections , Immunisation. This may be given in the form of tablets or syrup. Routine immunization can go a long way toward preventing meningitis. Students entering college immunization of college students is recommended by the American College Health Association. Aseptic meningitis in adults.

So if you see symptoms or think that your child could have meningitis, it's important to see the doctor right away. Increased fluid intake this may involve encouraging fluids at home or receiving intravenous fluids in the hospital. A special needle is placed into the lower back, into the spinal canal. Meningitis complications can be severe. There are different types of meningitis and each person is affected differently. Viral meningitis is usually mild and often clears on its own. Customer Service Call us for questions on your policy, payments, coverage etc.