Viral Meningitis

 

• Viral meningitis [VI-rul men-in-GI-tis] is a relatively common but rarely serious infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain.
• Viral meningitis is caused by any of a number of different viruses, many of which are associated with other diseases. Mosquito-borne viruses can also cause viral meningitis.
• There is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. The illness is usually mild and clears up in about a week.
• Prevention centers on washing hands thoroughly and often and avoiding mosquito bites.

 

What is viral meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. Meningitis is usually caused by an infection with a virus or a bacterium. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or a bacterium is important because of differences in the seriousness of the illness and the treatment needed.

bacterial meningitis is very serious. Severe bacterial meningitis can result in brain damage and even death.

Viral meningitis is usually relatively mild. It clears up in a week or two without specific treatment. Viral meningitis is also called aseptic meningitis.

 

What viruses cause viral meningitis?

Viral meningitis is caused by any of a number of different viruses, many of which are associated with other diseases. About half of the cases in the United States are caused by common intestinal viruses. Occasionally, children with mumps or herpes virus infection develop viral meningitis. Mosquito-borne viruses also cause some cases each year. In many cases, a specific virus cannot be identified.

 

Where is viral meningitis found?

Viral meningitis is found worldwide. Cases occurring in summer and fall are usually caused by mosquito-borne viruses. Those occurring in winter are likely due to other diseases.

 

How do people get viral meningitis?

The way people get viral meningitis depends on the virus involved. Some viruses that cause viral meningitis are spread by person-to-person contact; others are spread by insects. Fortunately, very few people who become infected with these viruses actually develop meningitis.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of viral meningitis?

Symptoms are fever, headache, stiff neck, and tiredness. Rash, sore throat, and vomiting can also occur.

 

How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?

Symptoms generally appear within 1 week of exposure. Illness usually lasts less than 10 days, and people usually recover completely without complications.

 

Who is at risk for viral meningitis?

Anyone can get viral meningitis, but it occurs most often in children and young adults.

 

How is viral meningitis diagnosed?

Viral meningitis is diagnosed by blood tests.

 

What is the treatment for viral meningitis?

No specific treatment is available for viral meningitis. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.

 

How common is viral meningitis?

Viral meningitis is relatively common. Almost all cases occur as single, isolated events. Outbreaks are rare.

 

How can viral meningitis be prevented?

• Pay careful attention to personal hygiene -- Handwashing helps prevent infection with many of the viruses that can cause viral meningitis. Wash hands with soap and warm water after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before preparing and eating food, and after sneezing and coughing.
• Avoid mosquito bites -- If possible, stay inside between dusk and dark. This is when most types of mosquitoes are most active. When outside between dusk and dark, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Spray exposed skin with an insect repellent.

 

This fact sheet is for information only and is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health-care provider. If you have questions about the disease described above, consult a health-care provider.