When meningitis is caused by bacteria, the type of bacteria that is responsible varies, depending on the child's age. See the table below for a list of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis depending on age. In general, with bacterial meningitis there is much less likelihood of numerous cases developing in a community than there is with viral meningitis. Most children with meningitis appear ill and lethargic and may complain of headache, stiff neck, and body pains. Frequently, they have a fever and a rash.
Infants can be unusually fussy, irritable, and sleepy.
They may feed poorly and not be comforted by holding. In some severe forms of meningitis, particularly meningococcal meningitis, there may be shock, confusion, decreased responsiveness, and a spreading purplish rash. Children with viral meningitis tend to appear somewhat less ill. Along with some of the symptoms mentioned above, they might complain of a severe headache and light bothering their eyes. Diagnosis and Treatment Children with meningitis need immediate medical attention and are often admitted to hospital.