Herpes meningitisis a form ofmeningitiscaused by theherpes virus.
Meningitis is inflammation of themeninges, which are the protective membranes around the brain andspinal cord.
This viral infection prompts flu-like symptoms, such as aheadache,fever, and stiff neck.
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What Causes Herpes Meningitis?
Herpes meningitis is aviral meningitis, which means that the meningitis iscaused by a virus.
Once a herpes virus is in your system, it’s possible to get herpes meningitis at any time.
How Common Is Herpes Meningitis?
The most common symptoms are headache, fever, and stiff neck.
This is particularly important for babies and people with weakened immune systems.
Is Herpes Meningitis Contagious?
Herpes meningitis by itself is not contagious, but the viruses that cause it are.
Older research found that 36% of women and 13% of men with HSV-2 reported developing herpes meningitis.
Diagnosis
Herpes meningitis needs to bediagnosed by a healthcare provider.
This may help you get an accurate diagnosis for herpes meningitis more quickly.
Treatment
Potentialtreatment for herpes meningitiswill depend on your individual case and how severe it is.
Common symptoms include headache, fever, and neck pain.
For most people, herpes meningitis cases are mild with full recovery after seven to 10 days.
Herpes viruses are widespread, and everyone is at risk of contracting one.
That doesn’t necessarily mean it will turn into herpes meningitis, though.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many cases of herpes meningitis will clear on their own in about 10 days.
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