Such cases are so mild even they usually are not seen by a doctor and may not be identified as meningitis. In more severe cases, the disease progresses to include symptoms such as stiff neck, sore throat, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, aches and pains in muscles and joints, and altered consciousness. Almost all people recover within 5 to 10 days without any permanent damage. Death is extremely uncommon in viral meningitis. Antibiotics have no effect against viruses, so treatmentis normally limited to relieving the symptoms of the disease.
Many different viruses can cause viral meningitis.
Sore throats, colds and flu-like illnesses. Only a very small proportion of infections result in meningitis. Enteroviruses are contagious and are very common during the summer and early fall. Many people are exposed to them. However, most infected persons either have no symptoms or get only a cold or sore throat and fever.