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What is encephalitis? Encephalitis is a viral infection, or an inflammation, of the brain. The viral infection that causes encephalitis may be the primary cause or a secondary complication. Viruses that cause primary encephalitis may be epidemic, such as polio, or sporadic, such as herpes simplex, varicella zoster, or mumps. Secondary encephalitis is usually a complication of a viral infection. Examples of secondary encephalitis include encephalitis that follows the measles, chickenpox, rubella, or smallpox vaccination, and/or many other less defined viral infections

What are the signs and symptoms of encephalitis?

• sudden fever

• headache

• vomiting

• photophobia (abnormal visual sensitivity to light)

• loss of energy

• loss of appetite

• stiff neck and back

• unsteady gait

• irritability

• confusion

• clumsiness

• restlessness

• drowsiness In severe cases, an individual may experience any/all of the following:

• loss of muscle power in arms and legs

• double vision

• impairment of speech

• impairment of hearing

• coma

How is encephalitis often diagnosed and treated?

A diagnosis of encephalitis is often made using blood tests, EEG (electroencephalogram), and/or a lumbar puncture for a sample of the cerebrospinal fluid. Because a viral infection cannot be cured with antibiotics, treatment usually involves management of the symptoms while the body’s immune system fights the virus. Consult your physician to establish the best treatment protocol for your individual medical condition.