Meningitis is a potentially deadly infection of the tissue surrounding the brain, which children are particularly susceptible to. The severity varies from viral infections, which are not life-threatening, to bacterial infections during which the bacteria can enter the blood and cause sepsis, which may be fatal. This article will explore the different types of meningitis, key symptoms to look out for and the management of suspected meningitis both in the community and in hospital.

Richard James Stuart Elston - Foundation Year 2 Doctor, Foundation Training Programme, Princess Royal University Hospital, Kings College Trust, London