Strep vs. Meningitis

Strep and meningitis can cause both viral and bacterial infections, depending on the source. Such infections can be potentially serious, and both require medical intervention. Because they're both infections, they can present with similar symptoms, such as fever and chills.

Meningitis

• Meningitis is a serious medical condition that causes swelling of the membrane surrounding the brain, compressing the cerebrospinal fluid that covers the brain and spinal cord.

Causes of Meningitis

• Viral infections are the most common cause of meningitis; however, the most serious cause of meningitis is a bacterial infection, which can be fatal. Group B strep can cause meningitis in newborn babies, if they contract it via the birth canal. Additional causes of meningitis are chemical irritations, drug allergies, fungi and tumors.

Symptoms of Meningitis

• Symptoms of meningitis include fever, chills, changes in mental status, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, severe headaches and stiff neck.

Types of Strep

• The two types of strep are A and B. Group A causes strep throat, scarlet fever, impetigo, toxic shock syndrome and cellulitis. Group B causes blood infections, pneumonia and meningitis in newborns. Many people carry the Group B in their bodies naturally, which is why pregnant women are screened prior to delivery to prevent newborns from contracting this serious infection.

Symptoms of Strep

• Symptoms of strep A infections can include sore throat, fever, rash, nausea and vomiting. Group B strep can cause no symptoms, but in severe infections can lead to seizures, stiffness and fever.