Viral Meningitis

What is viral meningitis?


What causes viral meningitis?

Viral meningitis is caused by viruses found in sputum (spit), blood, nose drainage, and bowel movements. The virus is spread from an infected person to another by coughing, kissing, or sharing food or drinks. You may also get a type of viral meningitis if you are bitten by a mosquito that carries the West Nile virus. Ask caregivers for more information about how to prevent West Nile virus.

What are the signs and symptoms of viral meningitis?

It may only take a few hours to a few days to have the following signs and symptoms:

  • High fever and chills

  • Stiff neck or neck pain

  • Severe headache

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Red or purple rash

  • Eye pain when you look into bright lights

  • Sleepiness or confusion

How is viral meningitis diagnosed?


  • CT scan: This test is also called a CAT scan. An x-ray and computer are used to take pictures of your skull and brain. You may be given dye, also called contrast, before the test. Tell the caregiver if you are allergic to dye, iodine, or seafood.


  • MRI: This scan uses powerful magnets and a computer to take pictures of your brain. It will also take pictures of the blood vessels and structures in your head. You may be given dye, also called contrast, before the test. Tell caregivers if you are allergic to dye, iodine, or seafood. Remove all jewelry, and tell caregivers if you have any metal in or on your body. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell caregivers if you cannot lie still or are anxious or afraid of closed spaces.

  • Throat and stool cultures: A swab of your throat or a bowel movement sample may be collected to learn what virus is causing your symptoms.

How is viral meningitis treated?



  • Rest: You should rest as much as possible. A dark, quiet room is best if you have headaches.

How can I help prevent viral meningitis?

  • Clean surfaces with soap and water. Disinfect with a solution that has water and chlorine-containing bleach.

  • Completely heat chilled foods before you eat or serve them.

  • Discard tissue after you wipe or blow your nose.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water.

  • Do not share food or drinks.

  • Certain illnesses caused by a virus, such as the mumps, can lead to viral meningitis. By taking steps to help prevent these illnesses, you can also help prevent viral meningitis. Make sure you have had the following vaccinations:


    • MMR vaccine: This vaccine helps prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. Children 1 year of age and older get 2 doses. These are usually given between ages 12 and 15 months and again between ages 4 and 6 years.

    • Varicella vaccine: This vaccine helps prevent infection with varicella (chickenpox). Children usually get 2 chickenpox vaccinations. The first dose usually is given between 12 and 15 months of age. The second dose usually is given between 4 and 6 years of age. Any older child or adult who is not fully vaccinated or who has never had chickenpox should receive the vaccine

    • Polio vaccine: This vaccine is also called inactivated polio vaccine or IPV. It helps prevent a disease called polio. Infants and children usually get 4 doses of IPV. The vaccine is usually given at ages 2 months, 4 months, between 6 and 18 months, and between 4 and 6 years of age. The vaccine may be given as early as 6 weeks of age.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

  • You have a fever.

  • You think someone in your family has viral meningitis.

  • You have a hard time hearing.

  • Your vision changes.

  • You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

When should I seek immediate care or call 911?


  • You have a headache and stiff neck.

  • You cannot see.

  • You are confused.

  • You have a seizure.

  • You have a new red or purple rash.

Care Agreement



Learn more about Viral Meningitis