Is Bacterial Meningitis Contagious?
Yes, it is. Bacterial meningitis can spread via certain foods, such as delinquent meats or unpasteurized dairy. However, CDC notes that bacterial meningitis usually spreads from person to person.
The spread of bacterial meningitis generally depends on the type of bacteria that causes it. Also, a person can have the bacteria that causes bacterial meningitis and not get sick themselves. These people are known as carriers. Someone who is a carrier for bacterial meningitis can still spread it to other people.
Here are some of the ways bacterial meningitis can spread:
- Group B Streptococcus and E. coli: This bacteria is known to transfer from mother to child during birth.
- N. meningitides: This bacterium spreads through spit or saliva. A person can spread N. meningitides via coughing, kissing, or living in the same house as someone.
- H. influenzae, M. tuberculosis, and S. pneumoniae: These bacteria can spread via coughs and sneezes when a person is in close contact with other people.
- E. coli: This bacterium spreads via food prepared by someone who did not wash their hands correctly after using the toilet.