Is meningitis contagious?

Yes: Although some types are more contagious than others, the three most common types of bacterial meningitis all have vaccines available to reduce the risk. There are no vaccines for viral meningitis, but fortunately viral meningitis is typically less serious than bacterial.

Yes: Meningitis is contagious. It is typically caused by viruses or bacteria, but other, more rare causes, do occur. Viral meningitis is usually less severe and may not need medication (some does), but all other types will need urgent medical care within the hospital.

Yes: Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. These germs are contagious, and are spread most likely by close contact with ill persons (such as living in the same home, coughing and sneezing on one another, being the caretaker of an ill person, etc. . . .).

Yes: Certain forms like Meningococcal meningitis are contagious, other forms like western equine encephalitis virus meningitis aren't contagious.

Yes: It is highly contagious - so much so that contacts to certain types of bacterial meningitis need antibiotics just because they've come into contact with the meningitis. The guidelines are best interpreted for your case by your provider, so a phone call is a great idea if you're concerned.

Yes: There are several agents that cause infectious meningitis and all are contagious.The 3 major bacterial agents have preventative vaccines that have eliminated most cases of these diseases in the U.S., saving thousands of lives. In some cases, antibiotics given to exposed people may prevent the spread. If you are concerned consult with your doctor.

Yes: Meningitis is swelling around the brain that is caused by a virus or bacteria. There are vaccines against some types of meningitis. These include the pneumococcal, meningococcal, and haemophilus influenza type b (hib) (not related to the seasonal flu!) vaccines. Meningitis can be spread from person to person through close contact. Contacts should be treated if meningitis is diagnosed.

Yes: Yes. Most common forms of meningitis (viral and bacterial) are contagious, although some causes are insignificantly infective (like fungal causes). Remember, some causes of bacterial meningitis can be prevented with vaccines.

Possibly: Bacterial infections that cause meningitis spread by droplet infection that is inhaled. Viral infections are spread by a similar mechanism although some forms of meningo-encephalitis are insect born. Fungal infections are acquired from the environment and usually are not transferred form person to person. Persons with immune deficiency are at greatest risk for acquiring meningitis from others.

Yes: Without knowing what type of meningitis you are referring to, my answer would be to assume that the meningitis is contagious. Especially for infants, elderly or anyone with a weakened immune system. It's always better to be safe than sorry.