Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and needs urgent medical attention. Meningococcal bacteria can cause meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning), together known as meningococcal disease. Meningococcal septicaemia can happen with meningitis or on its own. Septicaemia can be more life-threatening than meningitis and can develop within a few hours.
Attribution: BUPA