Meningitis

Meningitis is a rare but very serious infection of the brain and spinal cord membranes. It is typically caused by a virus but may also be caused by bacteria or fungal infection. It is important to seek emergency medical care for any symptoms of meningitis, as bacterial meningitis can rapidly become life threatening. Initial meningitis symptoms may seem flu-like and worsen rapidly. These can include a sudden and high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, confusion, seizure and rash. These same symptoms may be present in babies with meningitis, but may also be accompanied by a bulging of the soft spot of the head, irritability, constant crying and poor feeding.