Antibiotics are ineffective in viral meningitis. Treatment of secondary symptoms including brain swelling , shock , and convulsions will require other medications and intravenous fluids. Hospitalization may be required depending on the severity of the illness and the needed treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of bacterial meningitis is essential to prevent permanent neurological damage. Viral meningitis is usually not serious, and symptoms should disappear within 2 weeks with no residual complications.
Early treatment is key to a good outcome.
This is a gram stain of spinal fluid from a person with meningitis. The large red-colored objects are cells in the spinal fluid.