About this topic
Viral meningitis happens when a virus infects the lining around the brain and spinal cord. This lining is also called the meninges. Meningitis from a virus is not as serious as if it is from bacteria. You may have a fever, stiff neck, or headache, or be bothered by light. You may also feel tired and have muscle aches. Some people have an upset stomach and throw up. You are likely to feel better in a week or two. ‚
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What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Make sure you get lots of rest.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
Since this illness is caused by a virus, no drug can cure it. Sometimes, your doctor will give you an antibiotic just until the test results show you have a virus. The doctor may focus on making you more comfortable while your body is healing. The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain or headache
- Lower fever
- Stop you from throwing up
Will physical activity be limited?
- You may have to limit your activity. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you.
- Ask your doctor about driving.
- Talk to your doctor about when you may go back to work.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, and using the bathroom. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also work to kill germs.
- If you are sick, cover your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing. You can also cough into your elbow. Throw away tissues in the trash and wash your hands after touching used tissues.
- Avoid mosquito bites.
- Do not get too close (kissing, hugging) to people who are sick.
- Do not share towels, wash cloths, or hankies with anyone who is sick.
- Do not share toothbrushes, razors, lipsticks, or lip balms.
- Stay away from crowded places.
- Get a flu shot each year.
- Ask your doctor about shots that can prevent meningitis.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- If you or someone in your family has signs of meningitis. These include fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher, severe headache, stiff neck, and light sensitivity.
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Teach Back: Helping You Understand
The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: ‚
- I can tell you about my condition.
- I can tell you ways to help prevent this infection.
- I can tell you what I will do if someone else in my family has a headache, stiff neck, light sensitivity, or a rash.
Where can I learn more?
Meningitis Research Foundation ‚
http://www.meningitis.org/disease-info/types-causes/viral-meningitis ‚
Wisconsin Department of Health Services ‚
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/index.htm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚