Viral meningitis symptoms usually only occur in children, although adults may also be at risk of getting it.
It is most commonly a problem in the summer months.
Reported cases of viral meningitis tend to be very mild.
Some symptoms of viral meningitis may include; Mild headache Sensitivity to light Fever Feeling unwell This often fades away without the need for treatment.
There are very few reported cases of this ailment, this makes it difficult to estimate the actual number of cases.
It is a fact that viral meningitis is quite common.
On the rare occasion the symptoms may become slightly more severe.
These more sever symptoms may include; Feeling and being sick Stiffness of the neck soreness in the throat when swallowing Pains in various muscles Effects on consciousness It is rarer still for these effects to become so severe that it threatens your life.
It can even cause some long term problems.
Recovery time can vary but it is thought that the virus starts to fade between 5 and 15 days.
Depending on the individual and any previous medical problems this may take longer.
As this is a virus antibiotics are not very effective in combating the symptoms.
People usually just have to turn to ordinary pain relief methods at home.
Other viruses may lead to the development of viral meningitis, however this is not always the case.
Many people can get these viruses but not develop meningitis.
The viruses that may progress in the developing of this disease includes; Herpes virus, may result in meningitis or encephalitis (severe inflammation of the brain).
Meningitis as a result of herpes is not known to be fatal but it can become frequent.
Enteroviruses, this type of virus is present in the lining of our throats, noses and intestines.
This particular virus is responsible for many cases of viral meningitis, although there are over 80 types of this kind of virus.
Many cases of viral meningitis are linked with the echovirus and coxsackie virus.
Breakouts of mumps and measles previously caused some instances of viral meningitis, although this has decreased since the introduction of the MMR vaccination.
This vaccination is usually given to babies for the first 4 months of life.
It is hard to pinpoint the exact cause of this disease but there are ways to try and prevent it.
Theses viruses can be developed through hand to mouth contact, so washing your hands after going to the toilet, preparing food and after cleaning up is strongly recommended.
If you think you may be suffering from the effects of this disease you can seek advice from your doctor or other health professional.
Please remember that some cases can worsen and may become life threatening.
Viral meningitis symptoms can be easily dealt with through the consumption of paracetemol, herbal remedies, cold and flu remedies and if the symptoms include sickness your doctor may be able to provide you with an anti sickness medication such as cyclozine or meta-cloperamide.