The infection leads to inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that surround the brain. The bacteria can spread through close personal contact such as coughing, sneezing. Some bacteria like Listeria can also be contracted by consuming contaminated food.
Bacterial meningitis can lead to several serious complications, especially not treated promptly. These include: hearing loss, seizures, vision problems, difficulties with memory, concentration, coordination and balance. In severe cases paralysis can happen. Bacterial meningitis can be fatal if treatment is delayed. According to WHO 1 in 6 people who contract bacterial meningitis may die from infection. before antibiotics became the standard treatment, around 70 out of 100 cases resulted in death.
