By Stephen Beech

Meningitis can be quickly spotted in babies with "great accuracy" thanks to a new non-invasive test.

A study showed that it identified the potentially deadly infection in newborns and infants with 94% accuracy, potentially transforming current screening methods based on traditional lumbar punctures.

Doctors say the high-resolution ultrasound device offers a non-invasive alternative to a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, where a needle is inserted into the lower back to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

When caused by bacteria or fungi, it can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.

Even in cases where the disease is overcome, it can leave serious aft

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