Meningitis: Other Bacterial

Infectious agent: Any meningitis not caused by the most common bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Group B Streptococcus, Neisseria meningitides, Haemophilus influenza, Listeria monocytogenes). Refer to the respective A to Z pages for more information on previously listed organisms.

Description of illness: Bacterial meningitis is very serious and can be deadly. Death can occur in as little as a few hours. Meningitis symptoms include fever, headache, and stiff neck. There are often other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia (increased sensitivity to light), and altered mental status or confusion. Symptoms of bacterial meningitis can appear quickly or over several days.