VIRAL
Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis. It is less vigorous and deteriorating as bacterial meningitis and normally gets treated on its own. However, infants younger than one years old and adults with weak immune systems are more likely to get a more severe infection.
CAUSES: Non-polio enteroviruses are the most common cause of viral meningitis. It is extremely common from summer to fall. Other viruses that are able to cause viral meningitis are Mumps, Measles, Herpes, Influenza, West Nile Virus, and Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis virus. RISK FACTORS: Viral meningitis can infect anyone. Although, there are certain groups that most commonly receive this virus. These groups are children under five, and people with weakened immune systems caused by diseases, medications, or recent organ or bone marrow transplants. |
BACTERIAL
Bacterial meningitis can be severe. Although it is recoverable for some, patients can be left with many damaging effects including brain damage, hearing loss, and mental illness. There are several pathogens that cause bacterial meningitis such as Haemophilus influenzae (most often caused by type b, Hib), Streptococcus pneumoniae, group B Streptococcus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Neisseria meningitides. There are about 4,600 cases of bacterial meningitis per year, causing 500 deaths.
CAUSES: The common cause of bacterial meningitis depends mainly on the age group of the individual. Newborns: Group B Streptococcus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes. Infants and children: Streptococcus pnemoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenza type b. Adolescents and young adults: Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumonia Older Adults: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Listeria monocytogenes RISK FACTORS: Age: infants are at the most risk for bacterial meningitis. Community setting: Large public areas are were bacterial meningitis is most commonly received. Certain medical conditions: There are certain diseases, medical conditions, and surgical procedures that can weaken your immune system, causing you to be at a higher risk. Working with meningitis-caused pathogens:Microbiologists are constantly exposed to bacteria that cause meningitis. Travel: The meningitis "belt" is located in sub-Saharan Africa, it is especially common during dry seasons. Also people traveling to Mecca during the annual Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage, are at higher risk of meningitis. |