In order to rule out other causes of encephalitis, one must also test for other etiologies, depending on the location of exposure. In the Western US, test for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Powassian virus, Colorado tick fever, Western equine encephalitis virus, and St. Louis encephalitis virus. Seek other viral etiologies, including herpes viruses and enteroviruses. No specific imaging studies are recommended to assist in the diagnosis of orbiviral infections. In those patients presenting with meningoencephalitis, the only procedure recommended in cases of suspected orbiviral infections is a lumbar puncture.
Supportive care is recommended.
Patients may return to their regular activities based on their clinical symptoms. No medications exist to treat these infections. Provide supportive care. Assure normalization of test results after clinical illness has resolved. Prevention entails avoiding tick and other arthropod vectors via insect repellants, proper outdoor clothing and, if possible, avoiding endemic areas.