Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is another severe warning sign and complication of the mumps infection. It may not differ from meningitis caused by other common viruses, such as like enterovirus and herpes virus. WBC count is less than 500 cells/µL. The inflammation of meninges covering the brain and spinal cord is called viral or aseptic meningitis. Only 1% of the patients develop this complication, but it is one of the fatal sequalae of the disease.
Non-vaccinated children aged less than 1 month and those with a decreased immunity are at extremely high risk of contracting mumps infection and developing aseptic meningitis. Children present with fever, irritability, sleepiness, lethargy, vomiting, and sensitivity to bright light. Adults may present with the same symptoms, but fever, headache, and stiff neck are the major complaints. Lumbar puncture and blood sample is taken to make a proper diagnosis. Mild cases may recover on its own within 8 to 11 days, but severe cases need adequate treatment plan and management to ensure a complete recovery.
