Although rarely life-threatening, it can severely weaken a person. Viral meningitis can be caused by many different viruses. Some are spread between people by coughing or sneezing, or through poor hygiene. Other germs can also be found in sewage-polluted water. Viral meningitis cannot be helped by antibiotics and treatment is based on good nursing care.
Recovery is normally complete, but headaches, tiredness and depression many persist.
In many cases of viral meningitis, people would not even go to the doctor. However the symptoms are similar to the bacterial form. Someone with severe symptoms will need to be admitted to hospital for tests to find out if it is bacterial or viral meningitis. If you are worried, get medical advice. The germs that cause bacterial meningitis are very common and live naturally in the back of the nose and throat.