“Only 77 cases were reported last year, and 120 cases have been reported so far in 2008, accounting for a 55.8-percent increase,” Arita pointed out.

Meningitis is inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known collectively as the meninges. It can be caused by a virus or a bacterium.

The most frequent symptoms of meningitis are fever, headache and vomits. It can be a lethal disease or leave serious sequels when caused by a bacterium.