Meningitis

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is swelling of the layers that protect the brain and spinal cord. It is usually caused by germs such as bacteria or viruses. The bacterial kind can kill.

Signs

Fever, stiff neck, headache, confusion, dislike of bright light, and throwing up. Babies may be very sleepy, cranky, feed badly, or have a bulging soft spot on the head.

How it spreads

The germs live in the nose and throat and pass to others through coughs, sneezes and close contact. Some germs pass from mother to baby at birth.

How to protect yourself

Vaccines protect against the main bacteria that cause it. Close contacts of some patients can be given antibiotics to stop them falling ill.

Get medical help

Meningitis is an emergency. Go to hospital at once for fever with a stiff neck, confusion, fits, or a rash that does not fade when pressed.

In Dooram's words, from the World Health Organization. Source: WHO fact sheet: Meningitis, read 8 October 2026. General information, not medical advice.