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.