How is viral meningitis spread?
• It is not very contagious. • Different viruses can cause viral meningitis. Therefore, the spread of the virus depends on the actual type of virus involved. • Some viruses are spread by person-to-person contact; other viruses can be spread by mosquitoes. • Certain types of meningitis can be spread by contact with saliva, such as coughing, kissing, sneezing or sharing drinks and utensils. • Most people are exposed to these viruses at some time in their lives and few develop meningitis. Healthy persons exposed to a person with viral meningitis may either have no symptoms at all or mild symptoms, of the virus causing the meningitis How do I protect myself? • If you develop symptoms, see your healthcare provider as soon as possible. • To diagnose viral meningitis, the doctor performs a lumbar puncture or spinal tap to obtain some of the fluid that normally surrounds the brain and spinal cord. • Antibiotic treatment is not effective against viral meningitis. • In Canada, viral meningitis o
