Aseptic Meningitis Causes & Risks

Causes

A number of viruses can cause viral meningitis including:

• Enteroviruses
• Herpes viruses
• Mumps
• Varicella virus ( chickenpox )
• Measles
• Rubella viruses
• West Nile virus

Most of these are also able to cause encephalitis . This is an inflammation of the brain tissue. It is a much more serious condition.

Viruses that cause meningitis can be spread in numerous ways:

• Enteroviruses are spread:
  • Via direct contact with respiratory secretions of an infected person
  • Through feces
• Other viruses (mumps, herpes, chickenpox) spread though close personal contact or through the air
• Some viruses (West Nile) that cause encephalitis are spread by insects

Risk Factors

Risk factors for viral meningitis include:

• Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV infection (which itself can lead to meningitis/encephalitis)
• Immunosuppressive treatments
• Crowded, unsanitary conditions
• Season: summer and early fall