-
Health Links
-
Other KU Links
-
Our Services
- ADHD Medications
- Allergy Clinic
- Appointments
- Business Office
- Employee Health Services
- General Medicine Clinic
- Gynecology
- Insurance - Students
- Immunization Compliance
- Laboratory
- Men's Clinic
- Nutrition Counseling
- Pharmacy
- Physical Therapy
- Radiology
- Sports Medicine
- Travel Care
- Urgent Care
- Wellness Resource Center
-
SHS Information
Hours & Contacts
Events & Activities
Health Education
Health Policies & Forms
Our Mission Statement
Frequently Asked Questions: Viral Meningitis
Submitted by Dr. Myra Strother, Chief of Staff
Viral meningitis (VI-rul men-in-GI-tis) is a relatively common, but rarely serious infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and surrounding the brain. Viral meningitis is caused by any number of different viruses, many of which are associated with other disease. There is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. The illness is usually mild and clears up in about a week.
Prevention centers on washing hands thoroughly and good self care. Keeping your health up by sleeping enough, eating well, and not suppressing the immune system with alcohol or drugs is paramount.
- What is viral meningitis?
- What viruses cause viral meningitis?
- How do people get viral meningitis?
- How can viral meningitis be prevented?
- What are the signs and symptoms of viral meningitis?
- How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?
- Who is at risk for viral meningitis?
- How is viral meningitis diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for viral meningitis?
- How common is viral meningitis?
Meningitis is usually caused by an infection with a virus or a bacterium. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or bacterium is important because of differences in the seriousness of the illness and treatment needed. Viral meningitis is usually relatively mild. It clears up in a week or two without specific treatment. Viral meningitis is also called aseptic meningitis.
Viral meningitis is caused by a number of different viruses, many of which are associated with other diseases. About half of the cases in the United States are caused by common intestinal viruses.
The way people get viral meningitis depends on the virus involved. Some viruses that cause viral meningitis are spread by person-to-person contact; other is spread by insects. Fortunately, very few people who become infected with these viruses actually develop meningitis.
Pay close attention to personal hygiene. Hand washing helps prevent infection with many of the viruses that cause viral meningitis. Wash hands wit soap and warm water after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before preparing and eating food, and after sneezing and coughing. Keeping your immune system healthy is still the best prevention.
What are the signs and symptoms of viral meningitis?
Symptoms are fever, headache, stiff neck, and tiredness. Rash,
sore throat, and vomiting can also occur. A very severe headache
with possible vomiting is common.
How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?
Symptoms generally appear within one week of exposure. Illness
usually lasts less than ten days, and people usually recover completely
without complications.
Anyone can get viral meningitis, but it occurs most often in children and young adults. Also persons with suppressed immune systems are more at risk.
