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Meningitis Directory
Meningitis is a term used to describe an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain or the spinal cord. Bacterial meningitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can rapidly progress to permanent brain damage, hearing loss, and neurologic problems. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, and mental disorientation. The highest incidence of meningitis is between birth and 2 years. The childhood Hib, meningococcal, pneumococcal, MMR, and varicella vaccines prevent many of the diseases that lead to meningitis, and there is a meningitis vaccine that is recommended for teens. Viral meningitis is less serious than bacterial meningitis; it shares symptoms with the common flu and can be treated at home. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how meningitis is contracted, its symptoms, how it is prevented, treated, and much more.
Medical Reference
Meningitis (Bacterial, Viral, and Fungal)
Meningitis is a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, the meninges. Learn more about how you get meningitis, its symptoms, and how it’s treated at WebMD.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Meningitis
Find out about the tests and treatments your teen may need if he has bacterial, viral, or fungal meningitis.
Vaccines for Preteens and Teens
Find out what vaccinations are recommended for your preteen and teenager..
Meningitis: 12 FAQs About Prevention, Symptoms & Treatment
Meningitis can be a very serious illness. The experts at WebMD answer basic questions about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of the disease.