Meningitis is an inflammation or swelling of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.

Bacterial meningitis is very serious and potentially deadly.

In recent weeks we've reported on cases on college campuses like Oregon State University and UMass Amherst. In addition, we've seen outbreaks in several major cities in the men who have sex with men or MSM population.

Vice President, Director Scientific Affairs and Public Health, Vaccines North America at GlaxoSmithKline, Dr. Leonard Friedland joined me on this podcast to discuss this very important public health issue.