What Virus Causes Meningitis?
The meninges are protective tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord. When this tissue becomes inflamed it is known as meningitis. The condition may be caused by bacteria, microorganisms and even viruses. Because of the location and importance of the meninges, meningitis is considered a life-threatening disorder. If you believe you have meningitis, seek medical assistance immediately.
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Enteroviruses
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Enteroviruses are the leading cause of viral meningitis because of the prevalence of enteroviruses themselves. These viruses are found in the intestines and cause flu-like symptoms or rash illnesses. They are spread through respiratory secretions and bad hygiene, and so, are most commonly found in children. The viruses themselves are usually mild or asymptomatic.
Mumps and Measles, Chicken Pox and Rabies
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Mumps and measles are diseases caused by viruses in the Paramyxovirdae family. Most children are vaccinated against these viruses, however, they still pose a significant threat in third-world countries. Chicken pox and rabies may also be prevented via vaccination.
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Arboviruses
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Abroviruses spread via the bite of an infected, blood-sucking insect, such as mosquitoes and ticks. The virus enters the blood stream through the bite, but even so, rarely cause meningitis. This type of virus can also cause encephalitis, which is the inflammation of the brain. It is possible to have the life-threatening condition of both meningitis and encephalitis simultaneously.
Herpes Simplex
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Herpes Simplex 2 (HS2) more frequently causes meningitis than Herpes Simplex 1, although it is rare in both cases. Meningitis only occurs in about 4 to 8 percent of HS2 cases and is more common with women than with men. Herpes meningitis is usually caused by a genital herpetic infection.
Symptoms
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Viral meningitis often begins with flu-like symptoms and is generally milder than bacterial meningitis. Common symptoms of the condition are: headache, nausea or vomiting, fever, aches and pains, fatigue, sore throat and can produce a rash. Meningitis caused by these viruses tends to become symptomatic after 3 to 10 days after the onset of the disease.
Risk Factors for Contracting Meningitis
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There are a many health conditions that predispose you to meningitis. AIDS victims are more likely to contract meningitis from fungi or the agent that causes tuberculosis. People without spleens or functioning spleens are more receptive to infection, including meningococcal and pneumococcal meningitis. The most common cause of meningitis is blood-borne, when organisms cause infection, are left untreated, and then travel to the blood stream in numbers able to pass the blood brain barrier. Meningitis occurs when this tissue is infected near enough to the meninges.
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