Bacterial meningitis is an acute inflammation of the central nervous system that is caused by bacteria, viruses, or rarely fungi (Behrman et al. 382). The signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis vary from medically routine symptoms to serious, life-threatening problems. Treatment may include intensive antibiotic therapy, along with extensive nursing care, in an intensive care setting. Complications and prognosis are directly affected by the immediate recognition and treatment of the illness. Prevention of bacterial meningitis begins at birth and has various possibilities depending on the patients' culture and other medical problems. Bacterial meningitis is a serious medical problem that must be treated immediately for the possibility of a good prognosis. Along with treatment, early recognition of signs and symptoms, and prevention will decrease the severity of meningitis and the possibility of acquiring the infection.
             "Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes of the brain or spinal cord usually caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and rarely parasites. It is almost always a result of hematogenous spread" (Schwartz 526). According to Zimmerman, bacterial meningitis is an infection caused by "various organisms that can include Hemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumonia, or Neisseria meningitis" (446). Schwartz claims, "approximately seventy different strains" of the virus exist (526). The organisms invade the blood stream, which spreads to distant body structures, including the distant cerebral ventricles and meninges. This explains why other systematic infections are also associated with meningitis such as ear infections, mastoiditis, or sinusitis. "A major risk factor for meningitis is the lack of immunity to specific pathogens associated with young age" (Behrman et al. 751). Other risk factors include close contacts in households, daycare centers, schools, and or barracks, "along with individuals with invasive disease,...