Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is an infection of the thin lining that covers your brain and spinal cord (meninges). It can be caused by one of many different viruses. Some of the viruses that cause viral meningitis are spread by person-to-person contact, while some are spread by insects

The most common virus to cause it, is the entero (intestinal) virus. Sometimes children can get viral meningitis after having mumps or a herpes virus. A few cases are caused by viruses carried by mosquitoes. It is most common in children, but anyone can get it.

Viral meningitis usually lasts about 10 days. Some of the enteroviruses that cause viral meningitis are contagious (you can catch them), while others like those spread by mosquitoes are not. Only a few people exposed to the viruses actually get meningitis. Most people who are exposed have mild or no symptoms.

Home Treatment:

• There is no specific treatment. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.
• You can treat it by treating the symptoms i.e. using acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if no previous allergies are known. Ask the pharmacist, if you are unsure what or how much to take.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Hand washing is very important. Many of the viruses that cause meningitis can be found on your hands.

Return to the Emergency Department IF you have:

• Fever
• Headache
• Sore, stiff neck
• Very tired
• Sore throat
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Confusion