Final answer:
Bacterial meningitis is much more serious than viral meningitis, potentially leading to severe health complications and requiring treatment with antibiotics. Viral meningitis is generally less severe and often resolves on its own.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bacterial meningitis is indeed much more serious than viral meningitis. Bacterial meningitis can lead to severe complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, and even death. This type of meningitis can be caused by various encapsulated bacteria, including Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. These bacteria can enter the central nervous system via the bloodstream, leading to inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges.
On the other hand, viral meningitis is often less severe and is caused by a variety of viruses, such as those responsible for herpes, influenza, and measles. While it can be uncomfortable and problematic, most cases of viral meningitis resolve on their own without long-term effects. The diagnosis for both types of meningitis often involves a lumbar puncture, where cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is taken from the spine for testing. Bacterial meningitis requires prompt treatment with antibiotics and vaccines are available for some bacterial strains, unlike viral meningitis which does not respond to antibiotics.