What kinds of bacteria can cause meningitis?
Neisseria meningitidis are bacteria that usually infect the very young and the very old, but can also cause illness in people of any age. At any time, about 5-20 % of people carry these bacteria in their throats without getting sick. The bacteria are spread through saliva (spit) during kissing, sharing food, drinks, or cigarettes, and sneezing or coughing. People who have come in close contact with the saliva of a person with meningitis from this type of bacteria may have to get antibiotics (medicine) for protection. This type of meningitis is also called “meningococcal.” Haemophilus influenza type b, called Hib can also cause meningitis. There is a vaccine called “Hib vaccine” that prevents infants and young children from getting Hib disease. Most adults are resistant to this type of meningitis, and thanks to the vaccine, most children are protected. Certain people who have come in close contact with the saliva of a person with meningitis from this type of bacteria may have to get ant
