Meningitis (sometimes called spinal meningitis) is an infection of the delicate linings (the meninges) that cover the brain and of the fluid contained within these linings (the cerebrospinal fluid or CSF). It can be caused by bacteria or by any of a number of viruses.
Bacterial meningitis is a very serious and potentially lethal condition, which requires urgent medical attention whereas viral meningitis is a self-limited illness that will get better by itself.
Any of a number of different viruses can cause meningitis. Most of the commonly involved viruses reach their peak activity during the summer months. Thus, it is often during the warmer months that cases of viral meningitis develop. Although the early symptoms are similar, viral meningitis should not be confused with the much more serious and potentially lethal bacterial meningitis. Although individuals with viral meningitis can be quite ill, it is a self-limited Infection that will get better without any specific treatment.
The symptoms of meningitis are the same regardless of whether it is caused by a bacteria (the more serious form that needs urgent medical attention), or by a virus (the type that will get better by itself). Symptoms include fever, chills, severe headache and vomiting. The head hurts on movement and any attempt to bend the neck is very uncomfortable. The patient may complain of light hurting their eyes. Many cases of viral meningitis are accompanied by a fine pink rash over the body. This can cause confusion, as it can resemble the rash found in the much more serious meningoccal meningitis.
Because it can be very difficult to distinguish children with viral meningitis from those with the more serious bacterial meningitis, all children with symptoms of meningitis need to be seen by a doctor.
Let your Doctor know that the child has been in contact with a case of viral meningitis.
If, at any stage your child develops any of the symptoms of meningitis contact your Doctor immediately. If there is any delay in reaching your Doctor, bring them to the Casualty Department of the nearest Children's Hospital.