Viral meningitis is an inflammatory condition caused by a virus that infects the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. This condition--also referred to as aseptic meningitis--is most frequently diagnosed in children under the age of five, according to medical experts at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. People who develop symptoms of viral meningitis require prompt medical attention to prevent potentially life-threatening medical complications.
High Fever
A viral infection of the brain or spinal cord can initiate the body's natural immune response. When this occurs, infants, children and adults can develop sudden fever symptoms of viral meningitis, report health professionals with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fever symptoms associated with viral meningitis are typically high and can occur in conjunction with chills or sweating.
Stiff Neck or Headache
Inflammation along the top region of the spinal cord resulting from viral meningitis can lead to significant neck swelling. Swelling within the neck can limit a person's ability to move their neck normally. Certain people can also develop mild to severe neck pain, explain medical experts with PDRHealth. Neck inflammation can extend into the brain, leading to the emergence of headache symptoms in people with viral meningitis. These headache symptoms are typically severe and may become worse upon exposure to bright lights or sunlight. Stiff neck or headache symptoms of viral meningitis can arise within a few hours following exposure to the virus or may develop slowly over one to two days.
Fatigue
People with viral meningitis can appear unusually fatigued or tired, warn CDC health professionals. A parent or caregiver may notice that a child with this infection is difficult to awaken from sleep. Additionally, excessive fatigue can affect a person's ability to remain focused and active while completing normal daily activities.
Skin Rash
Viral meningitis can cause skin rash symptoms in affected people, explains the Meningitis Research Foundation. Abnormal, red, irritated patches of skin can develop across a person's body.
Seizures
Brain inflammation caused by viral meningitis can lead to seizure symptoms, reports KidsHealth.org. A seizure can cause involuntary muscle spasms that occur in conjunction with confusion or loss of consciousness. People who have seizures for any reason should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Stomach Upset
People who experience significant headache or neck pain may also develop stomach upset symptoms due to viral meningitis. These stomach upset symptoms can include nausea or vomiting, which can contribute to a temporary loss of appetite.
