Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be viral or bacterial.
Viral meningitis is more common and resolves without any specific treatment.
Bacterial meningitis, on the other hand, is less prevalent but is more serious and even potentially life threatening if not treated promptly with antibiotics. The onset and progression of the disease can be very rapid. Bacterial meningitis can be caused by a number of organisms but the most common affecting older children and young adults is Neisseria Meningitidis. Unfortunately, recent data has shown an overall increase in meningitis cases between 1992-1996. There have been 36 outbreaks from 1992 until present, compared with only 13 outbreaks from 1980-1991.