What Is Noncontagious Meningitis?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be viral, bacterial or fungal. Only fungal meningitis is noncontagious, which means it is not transmitted person to person.

Cause

• Fungal spores inhaled with bird, bat or decaying organic matter cause an infection spreading to the spinal cord.

Considerations

• Although fungal meningitis is rare, it’s life-threatening. Anyone can get the disease but people with AIDS, leukemia or other immunodeficiencies have a higher risk.

Symptoms

• Meningitis symptoms include headache, fever, nausea and stiff neck. People with fungal meningitis can also experience hallucinations, personality changes and confusion.

Treatment

• Fungal meningitis is treated with high doses of anti-fungal medicines. Treatment time depends on the person's immune system and the type of fungus responsible for the infection.

Prevention

• Limiting exposure to areas known to contain fungal elements is important. People who are immunosuppressed should try to avoid bird droppings, digging and dust.