· Herpes viruses, including herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles
· Measles virus
· Influenza virus
· Arboviruses, including West Nile virus
While viral meningitis can be contracted at any age, young children (under age 5) and people with compromised immune systems because of diseases or medications (including chemotherapy) are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Most patients will make a full recovery on their own in seven to 10 days, although young infants and patients with compromised immune systems are at risk for developing a serious disease.
Symptoms of viral meningitis are similar to those of bacterial meningitis, which is usually more severe and requires emergency medical intervention.
Bacterial Meningitis
Unlike viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis is usually severe. While most patients with bacterial meningitis recover, especially with early detection and quick treatment, the disease may cause serious complications that range from brain damage and hearing loss to learning disabilities.
Several pathogens (germs) are responsible for causing bacterial meningitis. In the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most common causes of bacterial meningitis include Haemophilus influenzae (most often caused by type b, Hib), Streptococcus pneumoniae, group B Streptococcus, Listeria monocytogenes and Neisseria meningitidis. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics.