Meningitis is a serious infection of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is a devastating disease and remains a major public health challenge. The disease can be caused by many different pathogens including bacteria, fungi or viruses, but the highest global burden is seen with bacterial meningitis. ( www.who.int ) Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viral meningitis is the most common and least serious type. Bacterial meningitis is rare, but can be very serious if not treated. Several different viruses and bacteria can cause meningitis, including: meningococcal bacteria – there are several different types, called A, B, C, W, X, Y and Z pneumococcal bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria enteroviruses – viruses that usually only cause a mild stomach infection the mumps virus the herpes simplex virus – a...