inflammation of the meninges of the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis occurs as an independent disease, or as a complication of another pathological process. The most common symptoms of meningitis are: headache, neck stiffness at the same time as fever, altered state of consciousness and sensitivity to light (photophobia) or sound. Sometimes, especially in children, there may be only non-specific symptoms such as irritability and drowsiness. Meningitis, especially if treatment is delayed, can cause serious complications: deafness, epilepsy, hydrocephalus, problems with mental development in children and loss of consciousness (up to coma). Death is possible.