Coxsackie and echovirus, types of enterovirus, account for about half the cases of aseptic meningitis. Other enteroviruses and mumps are additional causes. The incidence of these infections increases in the summer and early fall.
Mumps is spread by respiratory secretions, with increased incidence in the spring.
Some viruses may cause a severe meningitis and, like bacterial meningitis, can produce permanent neurological deficits such as seizures, motor abnormalities, and mental retardation. Rabies virus causes both an inflammation of the brain and meninges or a meningoencephalitis. Supportive therapy consists of analgesic medications and management of complications of encephalitis. Aseptic meningitis is a benign disease, and people usually have full recovery in 5 to 14 days after the onset of symptoms. However fatigue and lightheadedness may persist longer in some people.