Cerebrospinal fever, also known as meningococcal meningitis, is a serious infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. This potentially life-threatening disease can produce symptoms such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, nausea, and vomiting.
Some synonyms for cerebrospinal fever include meningococcal meningitis, meningitis, bacterial meningitis, and spinal meningitis. It is important to note, however, that these terms all refer to the same condition and do not represent different types of the disease. Timely diagnosis and treatment are critical for a successful outcome, so individuals experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Vaccines are available and recommended for those at high risk of contracting this disease.