Meningitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
The germs that cause bacterial meningitis can also cause septicaemia (blood poisoning) and cause a rash.
Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is usually milder than bacterial meningitis. But children and infants can be very unwell.
Bacterial meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is rarer, but more serious. It can be life-threatening. You will need emergency medical attention. Treatment in hospital is recommended in all cases of bacterial meningitis.
The symptoms for both bacterial and viral meningitis can be similar.
How meningitis is spread
The infection is usually spread by people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat, but are not ill themselves. The infection can also be spread by someone with meningitis. But this is less common.
It is possible to get meningitis more than once.
The viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis can be spread through:
- sneezing
- coughing
- kissing
- sharing utensils, cutlery and toothbrushes
- touching something with the virus on it, such as a surface, object or person's hand
Viral meningitis can be spread if you are in contact with poo of an infected person, such as when changing a nappy. An infected person can also spread it by not washing their hands properly.
You might contract it if you touch your eyes, mouth or nose before washing your hands after you come into contact with the virus.
Get vaccinated to protect against meningitis
Meningitis vaccines provide protection against many of the infections that can cause meningitis.
If all your vaccinations are up-to-date, you reduce the risk of getting meningitis.
Read more about meningitis vaccines
Viruses and bacteria that can cause meningitis
Several different viruses and bacteria can cause meningitis, including:
- meningococcal bacteria - there are several different types, called A, B, C, W, X, Y and Z
- pneumococcal bacteria
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria
- enteroviruses - viruses that usually only cause a mild stomach infection
- the mumps virus
- the herpes simplex virus - a virus that usually causes cold sores or genital herpes