Viral Vs. Bacterial Meningitis

The brain and the spinal cord forms what is known as the central nervous system. As important as they are, they also have extremely delicate tissues, that are vulnerable to damage. So one of the protecting mediums that surrounds this system is a system of membranes (composed of three layers) known as meninges. This system not only protects the brain and the spinal cord, but also provides cushion, nourishment and support as well. However, this sheath of the central nervous system itself remains vulnerable to develop infection caused by bacteria, virus, or fungi. Viral infection is known to be the most common one, but it is less severe when compared to the one caused by bacteria. Less commonly, a fungal infection may also be the cause.

What Differentiates Viral Meningitis from Bacterial Meningitis?

Each of these types of infections has been described in the following. It will help you know the difference between the two, and the similarities as well.

Viral Meningitis

» As the name suggests, this one has virus as the causal agent. As mentioned, in a year, the number of viral meningitis always outruns that of bacterial one (about 25,000 and 50,000 hospitalizations occur in the United States due to viral form of the condition). As common as this infection is, it is known to be the mildest among all other types of meningitis; resolves on its own within two weeks.

» A group of virus known as nonpolio enteroviruses is known to be the offender for causing this infection in over 85% of people. These viruses are more widespread during summer and fall months. Other than these, herpesviruses and the mumps virus can also be the culprits. The transmission of the infection occurs via sneezing, coughing, or coming in contact with a contaminated surface or object.

» The infection may give rise to symptoms which mimic those of a mild case of influenza. These may include fever, headaches, sore throat, and a general feeling of not being well. However, if such symptoms are accompanied by the following ones then it may indicate that the infection has reached an advanced stage.

• Stiffness in the neck
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Vomiting
• Increased sensitivity to light

» Meningitis caused by a viral pathogen does not have any specific treatment, and as mentioned, it is a self-limiting condition (if the cause is a herpes virus, then antiviral can be prescribed). However, patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids including water, take adequate rest, and take over-the-counter medications for reducing the fever and body aches.

Bacterial Meningitis

» Although occurs less commonly the viral one, bacterial meningitis is more severe. The pathogen that causes the infection spreads through coughing, sneezing, sharing personal items, and touching contaminated items.

» The most common pathogens that are known to cause this infection include streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), haemophilus influenzae (haemophilus), and listeria monocytogenes (listeria).

Speaking of the symptoms, the infection begins with headache (usually a severe one), fever, nausea, vomiting, and feeling ill. With time, and without treatment, the infection gets worse and produce symptoms such as:

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Stiff neck
• Rapid breathing
• Red rash
• Less thirst
• Poor feeding
• Sleepiness or difficulty in waking up

In babies, apart from the above symptoms, there are some which may be specific to them:

• Body seems to get stiff with jerky movements
• Increased irritability
• Unusual and frequent crying
• Poor feeding
• Vomiting
• Pallor
• The baby may have a staring expression
• Swelling in the fontanelle

» Given the nature of condition, treatment must be a prompt one, and it is done with intravenous antibiotics. Cortisone-like medications have also been newly introduced in order to reduce the risk of complications, and speed up recovery. The treatment may involve administration of one antibiotic or a combination of the same, depending upon the strain of bacteria that has been determined as the cause.

Preventing the infection is not difficult until proper personal hygiene is inculcated. For instance, keeping hands clean before and after meal, having a diet rich of fruits and vegetables, and covering your mouth while sneezing and coughing, are some simple ways to keep the infection at bay, and from spreading it to others. More important is to get the required vaccinations to reduce the chances of contracting both the viral and bacterial forms of the infection.