Meningococcal meningitis (caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitis) is the most common bacterial form in the UK, accounting for more than half the cases. There are several different groups. Group B is the most common (around 75% of cases), followed by Group C (25%).

Clusters of cases of meningococcal meningitis have been recorded in different parts of the country and in 'closed' communities like armed forces' camps. It is not always clear why these clusters happen, but they do not seem to be related to environmental factors. Possible explanations may be that some bacterial strains are more prevalent and that some people are more susceptible than others.

HOWEVER, MOST CASES ARE ISOLATED INCIDENTS

Many of the bacterial meningitis cases were due to Hib before the introduction of the Hib vaccine into the routine immunisation programme in 1985, which has reduced the number of cases dramatically.

Hib was the most common form in infants - those most at risk are between six months and year old - where between 16,000 and 25,000 suffered from the illness each year, resulting in about 10% of children dying.

Very few cases occur after the age of four, but it can happen. Thankfully this type of meningitis is now rare.

Caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumococcal meningitis usually occurs in older adults and small children, It causes about 10% of meningitis cases in the UK, has a high fatality rate (about 20%) and is associated with a higher risk of permanent neurological damage.

The bacteria are commonly found in the respiratory tract and may be transferred via the bloodstream or as a result of an infection of the middle ear or sometimes through a tiny fracture or defect in the lining of the brain.

Very rarely, this may result in recurring cases of pneumococcal meningitis and surgery may be needed to repair the defect.

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