Cause of Meningitis
Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Viral meningitis is the most common - symptoms are normally mild with most people making a full recovery
- Followed by bacterial meningitis – which can quickly become life threatening.
- Rarer types include chemical and fungal meningitis
The viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis can be spread through:
The infection is usually spread by people carrying the viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat, but are not ill themselves.
It can be spread by someone with meningitis, but this is less common.
Take a look at NHS UK to read further on the causes of meningitis.