Let's learn more about viral meningitis. Don't be afraid, let's talk!

Have you ever heard of 'Meningitis'? Perhaps your child or someone you know has suddenly developed a fever, stiff neck, or severe headache. At such times, you have to think about this condition called 'Viral Meningitis'. Although this word may sound a little scary when you hear it, let's talk about it in detail and very simply, so that you will have a better understanding of it.

What exactly is Viral Meningitis?

Simply put, viral meningitis is when a virus invades the protective membranes that surround your brain and spinal cord (the nerve cord inside your spine), called the meninges , and they become inflamed. Just like when we get a wound, these membranes become inflamed, red, and painful due to the virus. This is what we call inflammation.

This condition is most common in young children , but it can also occur in adults. It is sometimes called 'aseptic meningitis'.

What is the difference between Viral Meningitis and Bacterial Meningitis?

This is very important. There are two types of meningitis, viral and bacterial. Both cause the same inflammation of the membranes around the brain that I mentioned earlier. However, the cause is different.

• Viral Meningitis: This is caused by a viral infection. It usually resolves on its own and is rarely severe.
• Bacterial Meningitis: This is caused by a bacterial infection. This is very dangerous and can be life-threatening.

The important thing is that symptoms alone cannot tell which one is which. So if you think you or your child has symptoms of meningitis, see a doctor or go to a hospital immediately. Don't waste time.

What are the symptoms of Viral Meningitis?

These symptoms can appear almost suddenly. See if you have any of these:

• Fever
• Feeling cold (shivering)
• Severe headache
• Neck stiffness, difficulty bending
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, meaning difficulty looking at bright lights (Photophobia)
• Appetite
• It's hard to focus.
• Double vision

Sometimes, symptoms of a common viral infection (such as runny nose, cough, body aches, and skin rashes) may be present for several days before these meningitis symptoms begin.

Signs of Viral Meningitis in Young Babies

It can be difficult to recognize these symptoms in babies and young children who can't speak properly. However, as a parent, you can keep an eye out for these things:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• The "fontanelle" or bulging fontanelle on the baby's head appears to be swollen.
• Frequent crying, irritability
• Drinking less milk, eating less food
• Feeling sleepy all the time, or having difficulty waking up from sleep
• Lethargy (slow response)

If you see signs like these, you should see a doctor without delay.

Why does viral meningitis occur? What are the causes?

There are several types of viruses that can cause meningitis. Some of them are:

• Non-polio enteroviruses: Viruses that cause diseases such as hand, foot and mouth disease belong to this group.
• Herpes simplex virus
• Epstein-Barr virus: This is what causes the fever-like disease called mononucleosis.
• Varicella zoster virus: This is the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles.
• Mumps virus
• Measles virus
• Arboviruses: Viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.
• HIV virus
• Influenza viruses: Viruses that cause the common cold (flu).
• Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)

You see, how many types of viruses there are.

How does this get into someone?

The viruses that cause viral meningitis are most often spread from person to person in the following ways:

• Through coughing and sneezing (through airborne droplets)
• By close contact (such as shaking hands, kissing)
• Sharing food, drink, or personal items (for example, drinking from the same water bottle)
• By touching surfaces contaminated with the virus (such as doorknobs, tables, etc., and then touching your nose or mouth with the same hand)

Some types of viral meningitis can also be transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito .

Is Viral Meningitis contagious?

Here's a little something to understand. The viruses that cause meningitis are contagious. However, not everyone who gets the virus will develop meningitis. Most of the time, those viruses cause other illnesses. For example, if you take the influenza virus, you're more likely to get a respiratory illness (cold, flu) than meningitis.

Who is at higher risk of developing this?

Anyone can get viral meningitis, but some people are at higher risk:

• For children under 5 years old
• For those with a weakened immune system: You may have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition (e.g., autoimmune disorders, HIV, cancer) or due to taking medications that suppress the immune system.
• For those who live together as a group: for example, those in university dormitories.

What are the possible complications of Viral Meningitis?

Although less likely to cause serious complications than bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis can also cause some short-term and long-term effects . This risk is especially high in young children.

• Loss or impairment of vision
• Hearing loss or impairment
• Memory and attention problems
• Problems with walking and maintaining balance
• Learning difficulties

That is why it is important to seek medical advice as soon as symptoms appear.

How do doctors accurately diagnose viral meningitis?

Doctors diagnose viral meningitis by performing a neurological exam and examining your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord). They may also take a blood sample, a stool sample, a nose or throat swab, and sometimes a brain scan.

What tests are performed?

Here are some of the tests doctors use to diagnose viral meningitis:

• Lumbar puncture/spinal tap: This involves inserting a thin needle into the lower back and removing a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid to send to a laboratory for testing. This can help determine whether the meningitis is caused by a virus, bacteria, or something else.
• Blood tests: These help identify infections and types of viruses.
• Nasal or throat swab: The doctor will take a swab from your nose or throat to collect a sample of mucus. It will be sent to a lab to be tested for viruses or other infections.
• Imaging: Your doctor may use a CT scan (Computed Tomography scan) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to take pictures of your brain. This will look for swelling in the brain or other changes caused by meningitis.
• Stool sample: Sometimes, your doctor may ask you to provide a stool sample. It will be sent to a lab to check for viruses or other infections.

What are the treatments for viral meningitis?

Treatment for viral meningitis depends on the type of virus that caused it. Antiviral medications are available for only a few types of meningitis. Other times, doctors focus on managing symptoms, such as reducing swelling, reducing pain, and preventing dehydration.

Medications and treatments given

These are the medications and other treatments that doctors use to treat viral meningitis:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotics cannot cure a viral infection. However, your doctor may start you on antibiotics until the cause of your meningitis is determined. This is because bacterial meningitis is a much more serious condition than viral meningitis and needs to be treated quickly.
• Antivirals: For example, the drug 'Acyclovir' is used for herpes simplex and varicella zoster virus infections. There are also several antiviral drugs for the influenza virus.
• Corticosteroids: Medications like Dexamethasone or Prednisone reduce swelling.
• Pain relievers: Reduce headaches and body aches.
• Intravenous fluids (IV fluids): Fluids are given through a saline infusion to prevent dehydration and provide the body with the fluids it needs.

What happens if I get viral meningitis? What should I expect?

Viral meningitis is usually treatable. Depending on your condition, you may be able to receive treatment at home or may be hospitalized. If you are hospitalized, you will need to stay in the hospital for at least a few days. Since there is no specific cure for viral meningitis, doctors often provide supportive care to control your symptoms.

How long does viral meningitis last?

Most cases of viral meningitis resolve on their own within a week or two. However, some people may take weeks or longer to fully recover. This is why it is important to rest your body.

Can Viral Meningitis be prevented?

Yes, there are things we can do to reduce the risk of getting the viruses that can cause meningitis.

• Get vaccinated: There are vaccines for diseases like chickenpox, influenza, measles, and mumps. Getting these can reduce the risk of meningitis caused by those viruses.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly: Especially during colds, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating, after using the bathroom, and after changing your baby's diaper.
• Keep frequently touched surfaces clean: Clean things like doorknobs, tables, and telephones with disinfectant.
• Using safe methods during sex: Using condoms or dental dams can prevent the transmission of some viruses.
• Protect yourself from insect bites: To protect yourself from viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, wear clothing that covers the body, apply mosquito repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets if necessary.
• Staying away from others if you are sick: This helps prevent spreading the virus to others. If you must be around other people, wear a mask.
• Do not share personal items (such as water glasses, dishes) with others.
• If you are traveling, be informed in advance: Be aware of the infectious diseases that are common in the area you are traveling to and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from them.

When should I see a doctor?

If you or your child has symptoms of viral meningitis, see a doctor immediately. Your doctor will determine how serious your condition is and whether you need antibiotics.

When should I go to a hospital (ETU) immediately?

If you have these severe symptoms , go to an emergency room (ETU) immediately:

• Severe neck pain or stiffness - so severe that you can't even turn your head or tuck your chin to your chest.
• Very bad headache.
• Double vision.
• Confusion or mental changes (loss of consciousness, slurred speech).

These symptoms mean that the condition could be serious. So don't delay.

What questions should I ask the doctor?

When you see a doctor, it may be helpful to ask these questions:

• What treatment options do I have?
• How can I manage my symptoms?
• When should I see you or another doctor again?
• What symptoms should I go to the emergency room for?
• Is this disease contagious to others?

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

Viral meningitis may sound a little scary when you hear the name. However, it is a relatively less dangerous type of meningitis. In most cases, it resolves on its own.

But, the most important thing is, if meningitis symptoms occur, we cannot tell whether it is viral or bacterial meningitis, which can be life-threatening, until a doctor examines it.

Therefore, if you have symptoms such as severe neck stiffness, severe headache, double vision, or loss of consciousness, go to a hospital immediately. Quick treatment can save lives. Stay healthy!

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