Summer meningitis risk: Myth and truth about the disease that can kill in hours

Summer months bring an increased risk of meningitis, particularly the viral strain, according to epidemiologist Emilian Popovici. The warmer weather encourages the proliferation and spread of enteroviruses, which are the primary cause of viral meningitis. This seasonal surge is linked to increased social activities, such as children and young adults spending more time together in camps, swimming pools, and parks, facilitating virus transmission through less rigorous hygiene practices or direct contact. "Warm weather favors the multiplication and spread of enteroviruses, which are responsible for most cases of viral meningitis," Popovici explained. He also noted that swimming in unsanitary waters and neglecting frequent hand washing contribute to the risk.

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Warm weather favors the multiplication and spread of enteroviruses, which are responsible for most cases of viral meningitis.

Popovici distinguished between the two main types of meningitis. Viral meningitis is the more common and generally milder form, with most patients recovering within a week to ten days. Bacterial meningitis, conversely, maintains a more consistent incidence or appears more frequently in winter and spring, and it presents a more severe illness. The enterovirus-induced viral meningitis, prevalent in summer and early autumn, spreads rapidly as people engage in outdoor activities. Factors like poor hand hygiene, contaminated pool water, and close contact among individuals, especially children playing together, accelerate the spread.

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Children and young adults spend more time together in camps, swimming pools, or parks, facilitating virus transmission through poor hygiene or direct contact.

Transmission of viral meningitis occurs through direct contact with respiratory secretions, contaminated hands, or surfaces. Viruses can quickly spread within communities, though many infected individuals experience only mild cold symptoms without developing brain infections. Other transmission routes include coughing, sneezing, talking, or kissing, which can transfer small droplets between people. The fecal-oral route is also significant for enteroviruses, accounting for over 80% of cases. This involves contaminated hands after using the toilet, leading to the spread through touching surfaces like toys or utensils, and then touching the face.

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Viral meningitis is the most common and usually milder form, with most patients recovering in 7-10 days.