Index of diseases (A to Z Guide)
   
   

   
   
   
   

Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is caused by various types of viruses. It is relatively common but rarely leads to serious disease.

Viruses which can lead to viral meningitis include:

  • Entero-viruses such as echoviruses, coxsackie viruses A and B, polioviruses and the numbered entero-viruses. Non-polio entero-viruses account for over 85% of all viral meningitis cases.
  • Arbo-viruses account for 5%.
  • Mumps virus
  • Herpes simplex and varicella viruses
  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus
  • Adenovirus
  • Measles
  • HIV

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sudden headache
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • Stiff neck
  • Photophobia (eyes sensitive to bright light)
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Rash
  • Sore throat
  • Myalgia
  • Upper respiratory symptoms

Diagnosis

Lumbar puncture: cerebrospinal culture and sensitivity

Treatment

None for the usual viruses.

Control and Prevention

Personal hygiene - Hand washing.

No need for quarantine. Isolate as a precaution after 7 days of onset of illness.

Investigation of contacts/source of infection indicated.

No special need for concurrent disinfection is needed beyond routine sanitary practices.

 
 
   
   
 
  Surveillance is the first step towards prevention