Explore the human microbiome

Our bodies contain roughly ten times as many bacteria, fungi and other microscopic organism than human cells! This interactive guide by Scientific American gives you a brief tour.

Neisseria meningitidis - these bacteria cause meningitis which is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal column (the meninges). Untreated, bacterial meningitis is almost always fatal, and even with treatment the mortality is estimated to be between 20-37% depending on age. The initial symptoms usually present as a rigid neck, a high fever, and altered mental state due to the extra pressure put on the brain by the inflamed meninges. In some cases, complications can also result in brain damage.