Prognosis

Mortality with bacterial meningitis is high. ^a

Seizures are common. ^{b c}

Neurological sequelae are common; some will be disabled by their illness ^c

• The risk of dying or suffering neurological disability is increased with ^{a b}
  • aged 60 or more ^a
    
  • neck or back stiffness ^a
  • seizures ^b
  • altered mental state ^{b c}
  • focal neurological signs ^a
  • stenosis of intracranial arteries ^a
    
  • haemorrhagic diathesis ^a
  • hypotension ^b
    
  • anaemia on admission (Hb < 11 g/dl) ^b

Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is less severe. ^c