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
It is estimate that about 3,200 people get bacterial meningitis and associated septicaemia in the UK each year. Cases of bacterial meningitis have halved in the past 25 years but there are still new cases in UK everyday. People usually suffer from disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage, amputations, nervous system problems, or severe scars from skin grafts.