why is meningitis life threatening
What is bacterial meningitis? Meningitis is an infection of the membranes (meninges) that protect the spinal cord and brain. When the membranes become infected, they swell and press on the spinal cord or brain. This can cause life-threatening problems. Meningitis symptoms strike suddenly and worsen quickly. What causes bacterial meningitis? Bacteria or a virus can cause meningitis. Viral meningitis is more common, but bacterial meningitis is more serious.