The WHO estimates that at least 1.2 million cases of bacterial meningitis occur every year, and 135,000 of these are fatal, although this figure does not include epidemics. Viral Meningitis is more common than the bacterial form, but generally less serious, although it can be very debilitating. Many different viruses can cause it. Some are spread between people by coughing or sneezing, or through poor hygiene. Others can be found in sewage-polluted water.
Most cases occur in the summer months.
In mild cases of viral meningitis, people would not even go to their doctor. However, as the symptoms are similar to the bacterial form, someone with a severe case of viral meningitis will need to be admitted to hospital for test to find out which form they are suffering from. As people with very mild forms of meningitis would not even see a doctor, there are no reliable figures for the number of cases. The best way to prevent it is simply by taking basic hygienic precautions, such as washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before touching food and eating, and after sneezing or coughing. Antibiotics will not help viral meningitis, only good nursing care and proper hygiene.