Meningitis is an
infection of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal
cord
Meningitis can be caused by many different
germs including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Viral meningitis
(also called aseptic meningitis) is the most common type
of meningitis. Viral meningitis can also be a complication
of mumps, chickenpox, or other viral diseases. Viral meningitis
is seen most often in children and young adults, but anyone
can get viral meningitis.
The viruses that cause meningitis are
often spread from person to person
Most cases of viral meningitis are caused
by viruses called "enteroviruses." These viruses
can be spread by direct contact with saliva or mucus of
an infected person. The virus is frequently spread to
others by contact with feces, especially among small children
who are not toilet trained and to adults who change diapers
of an infected infant. The virus is present in the feces
of an infected person for weeks.
Symptoms of meningitis may include:
- Sudden headache
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Eyes sensitive to bright lights
Symptoms in infants may include irritability,
refusal to eat, and difficulty waking the baby.
Symptoms usually begin within 10 days
after exposure to the virus. Illness usually lasts less
than 10 days. People usually recover completely without
specific treatment.
No specific antiviral treatment is
available
Bed rest, fluids, and medicine to relieve
fever and headache may help a person with viral meningitis
feel better.
See your doctor as soon as possible
if you think you have meningitis
Your doctor can determine whether the
meningitis is due to a virus or bacteria. Meningitis due
to bacteria is treated with antibiotics. Meningitis due
to viruses is not treated with antibiotics.
Hand washing helps prevent infection.
Hands should be washed with soap and water:
- After using the toilet
- After changing diapers
- After sneezing or coughing
- Before handling food or drink
- Before eating
Avoid sharing things that may have another
person�s saliva on them, such as eating utensils, drinking
containers, and cigarettes. In settings like child care
centers, washing objects and surfaces with a dilute bleach
solution (1� cups of household bleach mixed with one gallon
of water) can be a very effective way to destroy the virus.
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Maryland Department of Health
& Mental Hygiene
— Epidemiology & Disease Control Program
May 2002
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