Meningitis Definition

Meningitis is a condition that occurs when the meninges—protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord—become infected and inflamed. Early symptoms of meningitis can be similar to the flu. However, having a stiff neck in addition to flu-like symptoms could be a key clue that meningitis is the problem and should be checked by a doctor.

Profile of the head magnifying the meninges showing how they become inflamed and infected.

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