Common bacteria or viruses that can cause meningitis can spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing eating utensils, a toothbrush or a cigarette.
Bacterial meningitis is caused by a bacterial infection of the meninges, resulting in inflammation. The infection is either community-acquired or nosocomial.
Bacterial meningitis can occur due to contact with a range of bacteria, including : Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae) type B (Hib) N.
Bacterial meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis or Haemophilus influenzae can be spread by droplets of saliva or mucus from the mouth, nose, or throat of an infected person, usually when the person coughs or sneezes.