Meningitis (Bacterial) - NYC Health

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Meningitis (Bacterial)

Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection of the lining of the brain or spinal cord caused by bacteria. It can cause brain damage, hearing loss and learning disabilities, among other health issues.

You can spread bacterial meningitis through person-to-person contact. It is not spread by casual contact.

People of any age group are at risk for bacterial meningitis. Newborns, infants and children are at a higher risk for infection.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself is to complete the recommended vaccine schedule. Talk to your health care provider for more information.

Symptoms

Symptoms can appear quickly after infection. They include:

Fever

Headache

Stiff neck

Nausea

Vomiting

Increased sensitivity to light

Confusion

In newborns and infants, meningitis symptoms may be difficult to notice. An infected infant may be:

Slow or lack alertness

Irritable

Vomiting

Feeding poorly

Late symptoms, such as seizures or a coma, can be severe.

Treatment

If you think you have bacterial meningitis, call your health care provider right away. You can treat bacterial meningitis effectively with antibiotics.

Additional Resources

CDC: Bacterial Meningitis

More Information

Invasive Meningococcal Disease

Meningitis (Viral)