Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

Respiratory Diseases

Viral Meningitis

What is Viral Meningitis?

Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain caused by a virus. It is a relatively common but rarely serious disease.

Who can get viral meningitis?
Anyone can get viral meningitis. It can be caused by a number of viruses such as those that cause the common cold, chicken pox, and mumps.
 

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Stiff neck
• Chills
   

What is the treatment?

There is no specific treatment, but the symptoms may be treated.
 

How can viral meningitis be prevented?

• Practice good hand washing.
• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.