Flu complication: Meningitis

Why it occurs ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Viral meningitis is the most common and least serious type and can be caused by several different viruses, including the flu virus.

Treatment ⁽²⁾

If you have suspected meningitis, you will usually have tests in the hospital to confirm the diagnosis and check whether it is viral or bacterial.

Viral meningitis can often be treated at home and tends to get better on its own within seven to ten days with plenty of rest, though you may be hospitalised if it is severe.

Medicines such as painkillers and anti-sickness medication can help relieve the symptoms (but check with your doctor if you have other conditions).

Impact if untreated ⁽²⁾

Viral meningitis will usually get better on its own and rarely causes any long-term problems.

Sources
(1) https://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/viral.html
(2) http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Meningitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx