Meningitis is any inflammation of the the meningis, or the lining of the brain, usually subsequent to infection. Under most circumstances a variety of pathogens can infect the lining. The one people worry about the most is caused by the highly contagious Meningococcal bacteria infection.
Meningitis is pretty tell tale. Symptoms include Photosensitivity (hypersensitive to light) and a very stiff and rigid neck. These are the hallmarks. However common signs include a fever, headache, nausea, dizziness, and on occasion red papulea on the skin.
