TRAVERSE CITY -- The Fungal Meningitis outbreak has now reached 16 states, has been connected to 297 illnesses and 23 deaths - including 5 in Michigan so far. But what exactly is Fungal Meningitis, and how does it differ from Bacterial Meningitis and Viral Meningitis? Making a House Call this week is Mark Thompson from Thompson Pharmacy in Traverse City.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges."

Breaking down Fungal Meningitis:

-It is much less common than the other two infectious forms.

-Someone who has an impaired immune system is more likely to become infected with this form of meningitis.

-Fungal Meningitis is not contagious, which means it is not transmitted from person to person.

-Fungal Meningitis can develop after a fungus spreads through the bloodstream from somewhere else in the body

Signs & symptoms of Fungal Meningitis:

-Fever

-Headache

-Stiff neck

-Nausea and vomiting

-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

-Altered mental status

Signs & symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis:

-Nausea

-Vomiting

-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

-Altered mental status (confusion)

Bacterial Meningitis:

-Bacterial Meningitis is an extremely serious illness that requires immediate medical care. If not treated quickly, it can lead to death within hours.

-Bacterial Meningitis is caused by any one of several bacteria.

-This form of meningitis is contagious. The bacteria can spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing.

-Vaccines are available

Viral Meningitis:

-Less serious type, most common form

-May be exposed to virus, but it may not ever appear as an infection

-Most recover completely

Signs & Symptoms of Viral Meningitis:

-High fever

-headache

-Neck Stiffness

-Lack of appetite

-Sleepiness

-Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

-Some vaccines available

To learn more, click the video above.

For more information on all of these types of meningitis, click HERE.

For more information on Thompson Pharmacy call 231-947-4212.