Bacterial Meningitis

Introduction

Bacterial Meningitis is a disease refers to any illness that is caused by the type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus. These illnesses are often severe and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream infections (bacteremia or septicemia).

Treatment

Bacterial Meningitis are spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions like spit (e.g., by living in close quarters, kissing). Bacterial Meningitis can be treated with antibiotics, but quick medical attention is extremely important. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best defense against meningococcal disease.

Statistics

Extrapolation of Incidence Rate for Meningitis to Belgium is 951. Bacterial meningitis affects over 4,000 people and causes 500 deaths in the Belgium each year. 3,000 cases of pneumococcal meningitis. Meningococcal meningitis infects about 1,600 people in the U.S. each year.