Aseptic or viral meningitis is a common but rarely serious disease that normally begins with sudden onset of fever, headache and stiff neck. The patient usually recovers after about 10 days. However, the onset of these symptoms requires the attention of a physician in order to distinguish between aseptic or viral meningitis and the much more serious bacterial meningitis. There are many infectious and non-infectious causes, but a certain kind of virus (enteroviruses) account for more than 70% of the cases in the United States. Epidemics are rare in the United States, but multiple cases have occurred among close contacts, such as household members.

Transmission involving enteroviruses occurs mainly through the fecal-oral route but may also involve respiratory droplets. The incubation period varies for each type of virus but is generally 2 - 10 days. The patient may remain infectious for about 7 days following infection.

Most infections cause no symptoms, or only mild symptoms. Good hygiene, especially good handwashing, is the best preventive measure.

April, 1997