Where Did Viral Meningitis Originate?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and can be viral or bacterial. The meninges are the membranes which cover the brain and spinal cord and become inflamed and infected, resulting in meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention, while viral meningitis is not as severe and often clears up as it runs its course.

Significance

• Most viral meningitis cases in the United States are a result of enteroviruses, which often cause no symptoms. A small percentage of people who become infected with enteroviruses develop meningitis.

Viral Infections Linked to Viral Meningitis

• Other viral infections can lead to meningitis, such as mumps, herpesvirus, herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster virus. Arboviruses spread by mosquitos and other insects can also cause infections that can lead to viral meningitis. Lymphocytic choronmeningitis virus spread by rodents can also cause viral meningitis.

How is Viral Meningitis Contracted?

• Viral meningitis spreads mainly through an infected persons saliva, nasal secretions or feces. It can also be spread through a mosquito bite, oral contact, via air passage, such as sneezing and coughing or through touching a contaminated object.

Time Frame

• An infected person is contagious for one to two weeks.

Viral Meningitis Prevention

• Preventative measures can be taken to avoid meningitis infection such as washing your hands, sanitizing baby toys, and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Viral Meningitis Symptoms

• Symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, rash and pale skin.