Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Meningitis


Overview

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. It's usually caused by a viral infection but can also be bacterial or fungal.

Symptoms

Symptoms include headache, fever, and stiff neck.

Treatments

p>Depending on the cause, meningitis may get better on its own or it can be life-threatening, requiring urgent antibiotic treatment.