Can you contract Meningitis by kissing since it is Known to be a viral disease?

“Lori Buher responds:”

Hello:
Thank you for your question. There are two forms of meningitis, viral and bacterial. Bacterial meningitis is spread through air droplets and direct contact with those who are infected (e.g., coughing, kissing). The bacteria live in the mouth and nasal passages of about 15% of us at any time. However in some cases, the bacteria can take hold and cause meningococcal meningitis – the disease my youngest son survived. There is a vaccine available for the bacterial form of meningitis, and I urge you to talk to your health care provider about whether it’s right for you, or your loved ones. More information about transmission and bacterial vs. viral meningitis can be found on the NMA Web site in the What is Meningitis Section, http://www.nmaus.org/meningitis/index.htm.