MENINGITIS is the inflammation of the brain lining. The disease can occur in viral, bacterial or fungal form, the latter is very rare, usually only occurring in people whose immune systems have been severely depressed.

Viral meningitis, generally speaking, is not life threatening.

The disease can be contracted through a host of different viruses but the commonest forms are coxsackie (found in the intestines of humans) and echoviruses.

It can also develop as a result of infections including herpes, measles, polio or chickenpox. Bacterial meningitis is by far the most serious form and death can occur within a matter of hours.

The bacteria that cause meningitis can also trigger septicaemia blood poisoning the two acting as a deadly form of the disease.

In the UK meningococcal and pneumococcal bacteria are behind the majority of cases.

Meningococcal bacteria are carried by an estimated 10 to 25 per cent of the population in the back of the nose or throat.

The bacteria can be carried for days and weeks without a person becoming ill being a carrier actually helps to boost natural immunity.

Coughing, sneezing and kissing can spread the bacteria from one person to another.

There are five main forms of meningococcal groups - A, B, C, W135 and Y. A vaccine to combat group C is available in the UK.

Cases of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia always need urgent medical attention and early treatment with antibiotics.

The under 5s, 14-25s and over 55 age groups are said to be most at risk.