A person exposed to meningitis when there is inflammation of the meninges that serves as protector of the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is caused by two main microorganisms, namely bacteria and viruses.
Due to Bacterial Meningitis
There are several bacteria that are known to cause meningitis, for example:
1. Neisseria meningitidis - known as meningococcal bacteria
2. Streptococcus pneumoniae
3. Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib), Escherichia coli (E. coli), listeria and tuberculosis - rarer types of bacteria that cause meningitis
Neisseria meningitidis is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis. These bacteria can live in the nose and throat without causing infection. But, there is a time in which these bacteria can fight and beat the human immune system resulting in meningitis.
In general, adults have immunity against Neisseria meningitidis. These bacteria can not live long outside the human body. These bacteria are usually spread by direct contact or close range, for example through coughing, sneezing, or kissing.
Streptococcus pneumoniae can live in the human nose and throat without causing infection. But when the human immune system down, these bacteria can attack and cause meningitis. These bacteria often cause meningitis in infants, which is when the immune system is not fully developed.
Meningitis Due to Virus
The virus can enter the human body and move towards the meninges, or membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. When it has reached the meninges, the virus can cause inflammation or meningitis.
Here are some examples of known viruses can cause meningitis:
- Enteroviruses: usually cause abdominal infection
- Herpes simplex virus: cause genital herpes
- The chickenpox virus
- Measles virus
- The influenza virus
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