What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Aseptic Meningitis, Viral type

What is Viral Meningitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Viral Meningitis is an inflammation or swelling of the covering (meninges) around the brain and spinal cord caused by a viral infection. The condition generally occurs in early infancy and childhood and is frequently the result of infection by a non-polio enterovirus, mumps virus, or herpes virus
• However, even though most meningitis cases are due to viral infections, certain bacterial and fungal infections can also lead to meningitis. The inflammation of meninges can be life-threatening if not treated during the early stages itself
• The signs and symptoms of Viral Meningitis include fever with chills, headache, increased light sensitivity, and generalized weakness. In severe cases, the complications may include seizures, superimposed bacterial infections, cognitive issues, and paralysis
• Symptomatic treatment may be considered in those with Viral Meningitis. The prognosis depends on the severity of the condition. Nevertheless, a majority of the affected individuals are known to recover within 1-2 weeks

Who gets Viral Meningitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Individuals of any age category may be affected by Viral Meningitis, although most cases occur in very young children (including infants)
  • According to studies, children below five years of age are at a high risk for the condition, particularly those with weak immune systems
  • Newborn babies less than 30 days old are at an increased risk for severe infection and complications
• The condition is observed worldwide, and there are no gender, race, or ethnic group preferences noted
• Immunocompromised individuals, both children and adults, have a greater risk of developing the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Viral Meningitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Viral Meningitis may include:

• Children below five years of age are at increased risk for Viral Meningitis
• Immunocompromised status of individuals that arise from factors such as chronic illnesses (diabetes), cancer therapy, HIV infection/AIDS, and recent organ transplants or other surgeries (spleen removal)
• Incomplete childhood vaccine schedule
• Occupational environments that can spread an infection, such as hospital settings, nursing homes, or daycare centers
• Individuals, especially children, staying in large groups such as in dormitories and boarding schools
• Working with or handling domestic animals
• The infection is most commonly noted during summer and autumn

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Viral Meningitis? (Etiology)

Viral infections are the most common cause of meningitis. Some of the common viruses responsible for the infection include:

• Non-polio enteroviruses - the most common cause in young children (particularly in the US)
• Chickenpox virus
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Herpes simplex viruses; Epstein-Barr virus
• Mumps virus
• West Nile virus (arbovirus)
• Rabies virus
• Measles virus
• Influenza virus

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Viral Meningitis?

The signs and symptoms associated with Viral Meningitis may include:

• Flu signs and symptoms are commonly noted
• High fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting and nausea
• Inability to make eye contact
• Loss of appetite
• Sleepiness
• Photo-sensitivity (light-sensitivity)
• Skin rashes
• Seizures

Children above two years of age may have the above signs and symptoms. However, newborn children with meningitis may present the following:

• Constant crying
• Stiff body and neck
• Sleepiness
• Poor feeding
• A bulge in the soft spot on top of the baby’s head
• Seizures
• Headache
• Inactivity

How is Viral Meningitis Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Viral Meningitis may involve:

• Proper medical history and a thorough physical examination
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• Blood tests and culture studies, as needed
• Nasal or throat swabs
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to identify the virus causing the meningitis
• Imaging studies, such as CT and MRI scans of the head and neck region, may be required to observe the extent of brain involvement
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): A process in which a small amount of fluid present around the brain and spinal cord is removed to be examined in the laboratory

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Viral Meningitis?

The possible complications of Viral Meningitis are as follows:

• Hearing loss
• Blindness
• Memory-related problems
• Superimposed bacterial infections
• Loss of speech
• Learning disabilities
• Brain damage
• Paralysis
• Shock
• Organ failure (kidney or adrenal gland)

How is Viral Meningitis Treated?

There is no specific treatment available for Viral Meningitis. The condition is usually self-limiting.

• Treatment includes taking enough bed rest, plenty of fluids, and medicines for fever and body aches
• Antiviral medicine may help individuals with meningitis caused by herpesvirus and influenza viruses
• Antibiotic therapy for secondary bacterial infections

How can Viral Meningitis be Prevented?

Viral Meningitis may be prevented if the following measures are adhered to:

• Avoid close contact and sharing of personal items with infected individuals, particularly for those who are at high risk
• Covering one’s mouth during coughing or sneezing
• Ensure proper hygiene and sanitization, such as regular hand washing before having a meal, after the toilet, or after playing with one’s pets
• Healthcare workers and individuals working in daycare centers should take appropriate protective measures
• Getting available vaccination against the viruses (such as for herpes virus)
• Availing early and adequate treatment for any health issues (medical conditions) 
• Staying healthy by having healthy food, regular exercise, and taking enough rest

What is the Prognosis of Viral Meningitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Early diagnosis and treatment of Viral Meningitis can prevent neurological damage and associated complications. Immunocompromised individuals are at risk for severe disease
• Generally, Viral Meningitis is not a severe condition, and the mild symptoms are known to disappear within 7-14 days in many individuals

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Viral Meningitis:

Children with meningitis should not be given aspirin because of the risk of developing Reyes syndrome; a syndrome that can seriously damage vital organs of the body, such as the liver and brain.