Viral meningitis is a serous inflammatory disease of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord caused by viruses. Coxsacki A and B viruses, ECHO virus, cytomegalovirus, mumps virus, adenoviruses, arenaviruses (HSV type 2), certain arbovirus and enteroviral infections are attributed to pathogens that can cause meningitis.
How is viral meningitis transmitted?
Unlike bacterial forms of infection, which can be transmitted contact, viral infection occurs exclusively by airborne droplets. The disease is largely seasonal, and most of the cases occur in summer time, when the viruses are most active. In this case, meningitis is one of the forms of manifestation of a viral infection, so even infection from a patient with one or another virus does not necessarily lead to meningitis, and may have other manifestations.
Signs of viral meningitis
The incubation period of the disease can last from 2 to 4 days, and during this period general symptoms already appear, such as:
- a sharp increase in body temperature;
- general malaise and weakness;
- pain in the muscles;
- nausea and vomiting;
- food disorders;
- there may be a cough and runny nose.
To specific signs, indicating the presence of viral meningitis can be attributed:
- acute headaches , which are not removed by drugs;
- confusion of consciousness;
- increased sensitivity to light and noise;
- increased sensitivity of the skin to mechanical influences;
- stiff neck;
- infringements at a flexion and an extension of extremities (difficulties at an extension of a leg bent at a right angle, and also involuntary bending of legs at an inclination of a head).
Treatment of viral meningitis
Treatment of viral meningitis, if it does not take place in severe form, and there is no indication of additional bacterial damage, is performed on an outpatient basis and is symptomatic.
With a decrease in immunity, immunoglobulin preparations are prescribed, from high temperature - antipyretics, for pain - intravenous administration of pain medications. Measures are also taken to reduce the level of general intoxication of the body.
Antibiotics are prescribed only if a secondary bacterial infection develops against the background of inflammation.
Consequences of viral meningitis
After meningitis, the following can be observed:
- periodic headaches, increased fatigue;
- neurosis, increased irritability, emotional instability;
- increase in blood pressure .
Usually the symptoms disappear within six months after the illness.
Specific measures for the prevention of viral meningitis do not exist. They are reduced to standard measures, as with any viral infection.