1. Types
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5 Basic Types of MENINGITIS
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1. VIRAL
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Most common type of meningitis Usually mild and goes
away on its own without causing long-term problems
Most often caused by a group of viruses
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called 'enteroviruses," which include common viruses like
herpes simplex virus, HIV, mumps, and West Nile virus
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2. BACTERIAL
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Develops when certain types of harmful bacteria either
enter the bloodstream and then travel to the meninges
(brain and spinal cord), or directly invade the meninges
2. 3. FUNGAL
Less common than viral or bacterial meningitis Caused by slow-growing organisms that invad
the meninges
Usually this results in chronic meningitis
4. PARASITIC
Naegleria fowleri is a type of parasite detected all over the world, although it only very rarely
causes meningitis
This microscopic organism enters the body through the nose and travels to the brain Found in
warm freshwater sources (such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs)
5. NON-INFECTIOUS
Rarely, meningitis can also be caused by
inflammation, chemical irritation or by