You may have heard frightening reports on the news about meningitis. Meningitis is a serious infection, but learning as much about it as possible can help to put your mind at ease. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or other infectious organisms, and is frequently caused by organisms spreading through the blood and into the cerebrospinal fluid. Most cases of meningitis are bacterial or viral and occur in the first 5 years of life, although you can get it at any age.
All cases are somewhat contagious.
Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial, and can be spread between people by contact with saliva or mucus. Bacterial meningitis can be spread through activities like coughing and kissing that involve throat and breath fluids. Because they cause similar symptoms, it's difficult to tell which type of meningitis your child has. Also, your child may seem more ill than he would with the usual cold or sore throat. When concerned, it's always best to take your child to a physician to discuss symptoms and for diagnosis.