Long-Term Effects of Viral Meningitis

Meningitis can be the result of a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. In most cases, viral meningitis will clear up within a week to 10 days, but in rare cases, the disease can progress and become potentially life-threatening. In the event that viral meningitis does progress, a patient can suffer long-term effects.

Facts

• There are approximately 10,000 cases of viral meningitis reported each year, though the estimate of total cases is higher. Several cases go unreported due to lack of proof through the use of lab testing and cultural growth. Amir Vokshoor, M.D., and Cordia Wan, M.D., report that "excluding the neonatal period, the mortality rate associated with viral meningitis is less than 1 percent; the morbidity rate is also low."

Causes

• There are a number of viruses that people are exposed to each and every year that may cause meningitis although these viruses may sometimes go unidentified. Even with exposure to the viruses that cause meningitis, several people continue on unaffected. According to the Mayo Clinic staff, "a group of common viruses known as enteroviruses are responsible for about 90 percent of viral meningitis in the United States."

Symptoms

• At the onset of viral meningitis, symptoms may be wrongly diagnosed as the flu due to common symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, feeling tired, loss of appetite and feelings of nausea. Continued symptoms include feelings of confusion, sensitivity to light and in some cases, particularly viral meningitis, a skin rash. It is important to seek medical attention from your family physician if you or someone you know is displaying symptoms of viral meningitis.

Effects

• In the rare case that viral meningitis does progress, long-term effects are possible. Your health is at a much greater risk the longer you go without treatment for the disease. Complications can include neurological damage, such as going deaf, blind, developing learning disabilities, brain damage, paralysis or other side effects. Viral meningitis can even cause seizures. Mayo Clinic staff states that "non-neurological complications may include kidney failure and adrenal gland failure."

Prevention/Solution

• According to the National Meningitis Association, "the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a meningococcal conjugate vaccine for use among persons aged 11 to 55 years." Receiving a vaccine and practicing healthy behaviors, such as washing your hands, covering your mouth and nose when you cough, handling food with care when preparing meals and keeping yourself healthy to boost your immunity, are helpful preventions against viral meningitis.