Meningitis (Viral)
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Meningitis (viral) Additional Information: Viral meningitis can be caused by many different viruses. Viral meningitis is an infection of the thin Symptoms can include: covering of the brain and • Fever spinal cord (meninges). It • Headache is caused by many kinds of • Stiff neck viruses, the most common • Sensitivity to light being intestinal viruses • Nausea (enteroviruses). Most people • Vomiting are exposed to these viruses • Lack of energy at some time, but very few develop meningitis Varies depending on the virus that is causing the Incubation Period Most cases occur in illness children, teens and young As long as the virus is being shed from the body. adults. Almost all cases Contagious Period This will vary depending on the virus causing the occur as a single isolated illness. event. Outbreaks are rare. Serious complications such Recommended Actions as hearing loss, mental Isolate, exclude, and refer to a health care provider. retardation and death may be a result of viral Immediate medical attention is required. meningitis but are rare. Cases: Meningitis may also be Exclude cases as soon as meningitis is suspected. A case can be readmitted caused by bacteria. See when they are cleared by a health care professional. Haemophilus influenzae and Meningococcal invasive Contacts: disease. None Resources *If you have questions please call public health for assistance and • CDC Meningitis (Viral) recommendations.* Transmission Varies depending on the virus that is causing the illness. Prevention Careful hand-washing, monitoring of diapering practices, and management of soiled diapers are important prevention steps. Back to the top Image by CDC.