Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain. Viral meningitis can be caused by different viruses, and is spread between people by coughing or sneezing, or through poor hygiene. Other germs can be found in sewage polluted water. Viral meningitis cannot be helped by antibiotics.
Treatment is based on good nursing care.
Recovery is normally complete, but headaches, tiredness, and depression may persist. Bacteria may be spread between people by coughing, sneezing, and kissing, but they cannot live outside the body for long. They cannot be picked up from water supplies, swimming pools, buildings, etc. Meningococcus is found in the nasopharynx of about 5 percent of the population and is spread by respiratory droplets and close contact. For unknown reasons, only a small fraction of carriers develop meningitis.