Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis, an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It is often less severe than bacterial meningitis, and most people get better on their own (without treatment). However, anyone with symptoms of meningitis should see a doctor right away because some types of meningitis can be very serious. Only a doctor can determine if someone has meningitis, what is causing it, and the best treatment. Babies younger than 1-month-old and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness from viral meningitis.

How does it spread? Close contacts of someone with viral meningitis can become infected with the virus that made that person sick. However, these close contacts are not likely to develop meningitis. Only a small number of people who get infected with the viruses that cause meningitis will actually develop viral meningitis.

Treatment: In most cases, there is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. Most people who get mild viral meningitis usually recover completely in 7 to 10 days without treatment. Antiviral medicine may help people with meningitis caused by viruses such as herpesvirus and influenza. Antibiotics do not help viral infections, so they are not useful in the treatment of viral meningitis. However, antibiotics do fight bacteria, so they are very important when treating bacterial meningitis.

People who develop severe illness, or are at risk for developing severe illness may need care in a hospital.

Natural Remedies:

• Garlic: Allicin is the active ingredient in garlic, which is a powerful superfood that has been shown to be effective against diseases like meningitis. Garlic also contains other antioxidants and antiviral & antibacterial properties, all of which help to strengthen the immune system. Incorporate garlic into your daily meals to help with the elimination of the infection.
• Echinacea: Echinacea Tea has been used for centuries to improve a variety of bodily functions and ailments. This amazing caffeine-free herb naturally helps fight inflammation as well as bacterial and viral infection and stimulates certain white blood cells. It is good for the immune system and the lymphatic system and is useful for allergies, colic, colds, flu, and other infectious illnesses.
• Use Cold Packs: Most people who contract meningitis oftentimes experience a fever. Applying ice packs to the forehead and the back of the neck can be beneficial in reducing the fever, as well as decreasing inflammation in the head and neck area. Decreasing inflammation in the meninges gives your immune system a helping hand so that it can work on targeting the bacteria.
• Get Some Rest: Getting sufficient rest is one of the best things you can do for your body when you have meningitis. The illness damages the immune system, and resting allows the immune system to recuperate. When you stay inside and rest as much as possible, you are less prone to the body being damaged by other pathogens and bacteria. Some cases of meningitis may also be contagious, which is another reason why staying indoors and resting is optimal.
• Drink Water: Hydration is key when it comes to naturally overcoming meningitis. Drinking water helps to flush excess waste, including bacteria and proteins, from the body and keeps them from building up in your kidneys. It is recommended to drink half your body weight in ounces of water to stay sufficiently hydrated. You may need to drink more when you have meningitis. Try to avoid juice because it contains a lot of sugar and can worsen inflammation.

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