10 Viral Meningitis Symptoms

By leslie

Reviewed: dr. stavarache

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. ’Viral Meningitis.’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/viral.html
• 2. ’Viral Meningitis.’ Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meningitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350508
• 3. Logan SA, MacMahon E. ‘Viral Meningitis.’ British Medical Journal. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2174764
• 4. ’Meningitis rash: Pictures, symptoms, and test.’ Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324726

Medical Expert

More About Us

Viral meningitis is a condition in which the protective tissue covering the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges, becomes inflamed. The inflammation may cause headaches, fever, a stiff neck and other symptoms. The symptoms of viral meningitis are different for babies and young children.¹’Viral Meningitis.’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/viral.html

Viral meningitis sometimes follows a case of mumps, a cold sore or other viral diseases such as West Nile virus, measles or the flu. Most cases resolve without treatment in seven to 10 days, but they may also lead to serious complications. At particular risk are children less than five years old and people with immune system problems.²’Viral Meningitis.’ Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meningitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350508

Fever

A common first symptom of viral meningitis is a high fever. Typically, it appears suddenly and may last a few days to a week. The fever can be managed with over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or aspirin. If it's very high and lasts more than a week, emergency medical intervention may be necessary.

Newborn babies experiencing high fevers are more vulnerable to complications that may be fatal. At the first sign of a high fever or other meningitis symptoms, caregivers should take a baby for emergency care. Admission to the hospital may be necessary.¹’Viral Meningitis.’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/viral.html