Can any doc tell me what exactly is meningitis and how can you get it?

See below: Meningitis-an inflammation of the coverings of the brain usually caused by germs but can be caused by toxins (chemotherapy) there are different bacteria that are more common causes of meningitis, but others like tuberculosis that are rare.Viruses are also a common cause.The germs enter the soft nasal membranes and invade the surrounding tissues.Movement to the brain is secondary.