Meningitis-Viral

Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis. It happens when a virus causes swelling of the tissues around the brain and spinal cord.

Unlike bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis is usually less serious, and most people get better on their own without needing medical treatment.

However, babies under 1 month old and people with weakened immune systems may get more seriously ill and may need hospital care.

Who’s at Higher Risk?

Anyone can get viral meningitis, but it’s more common and can be more serious in:

•    Children under 5 years old

•    Babies younger than 1 month

•    People with weakened immune systems (due to health conditions, medications like chemotherapy, or organ/bone marrow transplants)

Treatment

There’s usually no specific medicine for viral meningitis. Most people start to feel better within 7 to 10 days by:

• Resting
• Drinking fluids
• Taking over-the-counter pain or fever medicine (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

Prevention

There’s no vaccine for the most common cause of viral meningitis, non-polio enteroviruses, but you can reduce your risk by following these simple steps:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or blowing your nose
• Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick (like kissing, hugging, or sharing cups or utensils)
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow—not your hands
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that people touch often, like toys and doorknobs
• Stay home when you’re sick to avoid spreading the virus to others

Vaccines That Help Prevent Some Types of Viral Meningitis

Some viruses that can lead to viral meningitis—like measles, mumps, chickenpox, and flu—can be prevented with vaccines. Make sure you and your children are up to date on all recommended vaccinations.