The definition of viral meningitis is fever with features of meningeal irritation with no evidence of bacterial infection. Viral meningitis usually starts with a virus infecting the respiratory or digestive tract. The virus later will multiply and occupy the lymph nodes. Later, the virus will infect other organs or structures like the meninges. Viral meningitis prevention is helpful to curb this disease.
The probable long term side effects of viral meningitis are:
- Problems with memory
- Problems to concentrate
- Fatigue
- Recurring headache
- Mood swings
- Deafness
- Seizure
- Visual problem
Viral meningitis is commonly caused by Enteroviruses. 85% of viral meningitis cases are due to infection by Enteroviruses. Other viruses are:
- Herpesviruses
- Arboviruses
- Parechoviruses
- Influenza
- Rabies
Meningitis is a state of inflamed meninges. Meninges are the covering of the spinal cord and brain. Meningitis can affect not only adults but also children. Meningitis can be caused by a viral infection. Bacterial or fungal infection can also contribute to meningitis. Meninges has three layers. The outermost layer is called the dura layer, the middle layer is known as the arachnoid layer, and the innermost layer is the pia layer. Reports show that there are about 10 to 20 new cases of meningitis per 100,000 children every year. There are about 42,000 hospitalizations due to viral meningitis each year in the United States of America. Children below 1 year of age are the most commonly affected by viral meningitis. In countries with temperate climates (four seasons), viral meningitis usually peaks during autumn and summer.
Enteroviruses mostly spread via the faecal-oral route, while some via inhalation of respiratory droplets containing enteroviruses. Rabies happened following direct contact with animal saliva containing rabies virus. Arboviruses spread via an insect bite. The features of viral meningitis are quite similar to bacterial meningitis but less severe. The signs and symptoms of viral meningitis are:
- Fever
- Poor feeding
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- Bulging fontanelle
- Respiratory symptoms
- Stiff nec
History taking is very much important in helping doctors to distinguish one type of meningitis from another. Doctors will ask questions that have clinical values. Physical examination is later carried out to detect any clinical signs and evidence that points towards certain illnesses. Investigations are done after history taking and physical examination to gather more evidence to confirm the diagnosis of viral meningitis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) studies, blood tests, and imaging are commonly done.
Hospitalized patients are placed in dark and quiet rooms to rest. Patients are given acetaminophen to treat fever, pain, or headache. Antibiotics are given while waiting for test results. Once viral meningitis is confirmed, antiviral will be given to replace the initial antibiotics therapy. Acyclovir is the most commonly given antivirus in viral meningitis cases. Those who suffer from viral meningitis often recover fully following treatment.
Prevention should be the main consideration in health-related issues. Meningitis especially viral meningitis can be prevented by:
- Vaccinations
- Maintain good hygiene especially hand hygiene upon changing the diaper
- Use insects repellents
- Contact precautions following the duration of the illness
Viral meningitis prevention like vaccinations is proven effective. Please seek immediate medical attention for any health issues you are facing. It does not only you but all your beloved ones.
