Which Meningitis Is Contagious?

Viral meningitis can be contagious from 3 days after infection starts to about 10 days after symptoms develop. Bacterial meningitis is usually less contagious than viral meningitis. It's generally contagious during the incubation period and an additional 7 to 14 days.

What is the most contagious form of meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis: Bacterial meningitis is usually contagious; some bacteria more highly contagious (such as Neisseria meningitidis in young adults and Streptococcus pneumoniae in all ages) than others. Fungal meningitis: Fungal meningitis (for example, Cryptococcus meningitis) is not considered to be contagious.

Which is worse viral or bacterial meningitis?

Viral meningitis is the most common and least serious type. Bacterial meningitis is rare, but can be very serious if not treated.