Pediatrics Common Questions, Quick Answers

Viral Meningitis

Donna D'Alessandro, M.D.
Lindsay Huth, B.A.
Peer Review Status: Internally Reviewed
Creation Date: February 2002
Last Revision Date: April 2002

• What is viral meningitis?
• What causes it?
• Who can get it?
• What are the signs and symptoms?
• Is it contagious?
• How is it treated?
• How long does it last?
• Can it be prevented?
• When should I call the doctor?

What is viral meningitis?

• It is a viral infection.
• It causes swelling of the lining of the brain.
• Most cases are not serious.

What causes it?

• It is caused by a type of virus, usually coxsackievirus and echovirus.
• It can also be caused by herpesvirus and the mumps virus.
• Some people may get infected with the virus but not get meningitis.

Who can get it?

• Anyone can get viral meningitis.
• It is most common in the summer and early fall.
• It most commonly affects children under 5 years old.
• Children ages 3-5 months are at highest risk.
• Children in day care are more likely to get the infection.
• Not everyone who is infected will get viral meningitis.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms are different for each person. They can include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Pain when looking at bright lights
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Poor appetite
• Feeling tired and sleepy
• Skin rash
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Ear ache
• Cough
• Trouble breathing

In babies, symptoms are harder to notice. They can include:

• Fever
• Fussy behavior, irritability
• Crying (usually high-pitched)
• Difficulty waking up
• Refuses to eat
• Not comforted by being held
• May be more fussy when held
• Jaundice (skin look yellowish)
• Soft spot on baby's head may have swelled

Is it contagious?

• Yes. Viral meningitis is contagious.
• The virus can get in the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• It can be spread by coughing and sneezing and through saliva.
• Infection can also spread if hands are not clean.
• It can be spread in stools. Parents can be infected if their hands are not washed after changing a baby's diaper.
• It can be spread if hands are not washed after using the restroom.
• Some people may be infected by the virus but not get meningitis.

How is it treated?

• Take your child to the doctor if she has symptoms.
• The doctor will take a "spinal tap." It takes a sample of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord.
• The test can usually tell the doctor if the meningitis is caused by a virus or bacteria.
• Bacterial meningitis is more serious and can be treated with antibiotics.
• Viral meningitis can not be treated with antibiotics. But, if the doctor doesn't know what the cause is, your child may need to take antibiotics just in case it is bacterial.
• Most children with viral meningitis can be treated at home. If a child is very sick, she may need to stay in the hospital until she is better.
• There is no treatment for viral meningitis. Usually, the body takes care of itself without needing treatment.
• Doctors recommend rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and treatment for fever and headache if needed.
• Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, or ibuprofen, such as Advil, may help relieve a headache.

How long does it last?

• Symptoms usually last 7 to 10 days.

Can it be prevented?

• The spread of infection can be prevented.
• Wash hands often, especially after changing a baby's diaper or using the restroom.
• Wash hands often if you live with an infected person.
• Wash hands before eating or preparing food.

When should I call the doctor?

• Call your doctor if your child has symptoms of meningitis.
• Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's condition or treatment.

Quick Answers

• Viral meningitis is an infection that causes swelling of the lining of the brain.
• It is caused by a virus.
• It most commonly affects children under 5 years old.
• Symptoms include fever, headache, and neck pain. Babies may be unusually fussy.
• It can be spread by coughing and sneezing and through saliva.
• Viral meningitis can not be treated with antibiotics. Doctors recommend rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and treatment for fever and headache if needed.
• Symptoms usually last 7 to 10 days.
• To help prevent the spread of infection, wash hands often.
• Call your doctor if your child has symptoms of meningitis.

References

• Canadian Pediatric Society. Viral Meningitis. Caring for Kids. November/December 1998 (cited 2002 February 5). URL: http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/whensick/ViralMeningitis.htm
• Izenberg, N and Rutherford, K. Meningitis. KidsHealth. 2001 May (cited 2002 February 5). URL: http://www.kidshealth.org/PageManager.jsp?dn=KidsHealth&lic=1&ps=107&cat_id=20043&article_set=22935
• National Center of Infectious Disease. Viral (Aseptic) Meningitis. CDC. 2001 August 20 (cited 2002 February 5). URL: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/enterovirus/viral_meningitis.htm

See related Patient Topics Brain and Nervous System, Infections or Meningitis.

See related Provider Topics Brain and Nervous System or Infections.

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