Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED, and the doctor thinks you have "meningitis." This is when the lining that covers the brain and spinal cord (called the "meninges") gets inflamed or infected. It can happen after you have an infection in another part of the body. Meningitis can cause a fever, headache, and other symptoms.
The doctor thinks your infection is caused by a virus, and not bacteria or another germ. You will probably get better without any treatment in 1 to 2 weeks. Since your meningitis was caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take all your medicines as instructed, if the doctor gave you any.
●Take a medicine like acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin) if needed. These can help with symptoms and bring down a fever.
●Get plenty of rest. If you have a headache or your eyes are sensitive to light, try to rest in a dark, quiet room.
●Drink lots of fluids (like water, juice, or broth) to stay hydrated.
●Wash your hands often. Do not share cups or silverware with others. These things help prevent spreading the infection.
●Get all the vaccines your regular doctor recommends.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if you:
•Have a seizure
•Have severe trouble breathing
•Cannot move your arms or legs
●Return to the ED if:
•You have a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher, or chills.
•You are very confused, are very sleepy, cannot be woken up, or have trouble speaking.
•Your headache or stiff neck gets worse.
•You have blurry vision.
•You feel very weak.
•You get a new skin rash.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have signs of dehydration, such as:
•Dizziness
•Muscle cramps
•Not urinating for more than 5 hours
●You have nausea or vomiting.
●Your symptoms are not improving after a few days.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
