What is the causative agent of meningitis?
Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective tissue and fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (the meninges). It is caused by an infection of microorganisms such as viruses, fungi, bacteria and parasites. Whether meningitis is a life-threatening event or a brief illness is determined by the type and the cause.Viral MeningitisA group of viruses called enteroviruses are responsible for 90 percent of viral meningitis cases, but only a small number of people with an enterovirus infection develop meningitis. Other viruses that cause meningitis are paramyxovirus (the virus that causes Mumps), herpesvirus, varicella-zoster virus (the virus that causes chicken pox and shingles), measles virus, arboviruses (spread by mosquitoes and insects) and influenza virus. Most cases of meningitis are viral meningitis.Bacterial MeningitisBacteria can cause meningitis by infecting the bloodstream as a result of an injury or through infections of the ear and sinus. Common strains that cause bact
