Symptoms
Severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, sometimes rash.
Cause
Bacterial or viral infection causing inflammation of the membranes covering brain and spinal cord.
Prevention
Vaccination where available, prompt treatment of ear/sinus infections, good hygiene in crowded settings.
Treatment
Bacterial meningitis needs urgent IV antibiotics in hospital; viral cases often need supportive care. Commonly used medicines: ceftriaxone or similar IV antibiotics for bacterial meningitis, started urgently.
See a doctor if
This is a medical emergency — seek immediate care for fever with stiff neck and severe headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early symptoms of Meningitis?
Severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, sometimes rash.
What causes Meningitis?
Bacterial or viral infection causing inflammation of the membranes covering brain and spinal cord.
How can Meningitis be prevented?
Vaccination where available, prompt treatment of ear/sinus infections, good hygiene in crowded settings.
What is the treatment for Meningitis?
Bacterial meningitis needs urgent IV antibiotics in hospital; viral cases often need supportive care. Commonly used medicines: ceftriaxone or similar IV antibiotics for bacterial meningitis, started urgently.
When should I see a doctor for Meningitis?
This is a medical emergency — seek immediate care for fever with stiff neck and severe headache.
Reviewed by the Swasthya Suchi pharmacy team for general accuracy · Last updated: 2026-08-10