How to Treat Viral Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be life-threatening because of the proximity of the inflammation to the brain and spinal cord. However, viral meningitis usually has a more benign course than bacterial meningitis. The treatment for viral meningitis usually consists of supportive therapy.

Things You'll Need

• Pain medication
• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Lorazepam
• Midazolam
• Phenytoin
• Mannitol
• Dexamethasone

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Instructions

• 1

  Provide supportive care for most cases of viral meningitis, as the viruses that usually cause meningitis don't respond to a specific treatment. Supportive care consists primarily of bed rest and fluids. A physician may also prescribe medication for the pain and inflammation.

• 2

  Administer Acyclovir or Valacyclovir for cases of viral meningitis caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). The standard dose of Acylocvir is 10 mg for each kilogram of body weight every day. This medication should be delivered intravenously for up to 21 days. Viral meningitis caused by HSV should be treated promptly because of the possibility of HSV encephalitis.

• 3

  Perform treatments on infants and newborns with viral meningitis. Neonatal patients should receive Acyclovir promptly, in addition to a broad-spectrum antibiotic to protect against secondary bacterial infections of the pulmonary system and urinary tract. These patients should also receive fluid and electrolytes, especially sodium.

• 4

  Treat viral meningitis patients in unstable condition with critical care. These measures can include airway protection, testing for neurological problems and the prevention of any complications of viral meningitis.

• 5

  Provide treatment for severe cases of viral meningitis. Patients that experience seizures will need an immediate intravenous anticonvulsant such as lorazepam, midazolam or phenytoin. Viral meningitis can cause cerebral edema, which may require measures to reduce the intracranial pressure. This can include an infusion of mannitol, intravenous dexamethasone or intubation.