Disease of the month: Meningitis

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This is a common illness that strikes people in different ways, though its effects can last a lifetime. Mary Randell explains the underwriting implications of meningitis.

Meningitis is the inflammation and swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. There are two main types of meningitis: viral and bacterial, with occasionally fungal infections causing this disease. Viral Meningitis Viral meningitis is fairly common and can affect anyone, although it occurs mostly in children. It is more common during the summer and in most cases the disease is relatively mild, with symptoms of headache, fever and general ill feeling. Viral meningitis sufferers usually recover quickly, needing only simple medication to ease their symptoms. Occasionally, ...

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