Study to investigate the causes and after-effects of viral meningitis

The condition is believed to be more common than the more deadly form of the disease caused by bacteria.

A wide range of common viruses including mumps and measles trigger the illness but now scientists from Liverpool University are planning research across the North to investigate the causes and effects of the condition which occurs most often in children.

Symptoms are relatively mild including headache and fever and most patients usually recover without medical treatment but sometimes it can progress to become life-threatening and cause long-term after effects.

The study, funded by the Meningitis Research Foundation, involves 11 NHS trusts including Leeds, will examine causes. Prof Tom Solomon, of the Institute of Infection and Global Health at Liverpool who is leading the study, said: “Current research shows that we are aware of some of the viruses that cause meningitis but many patients remain without a specific diagnosis.

“Our research will try to find out exactly how big the problem is and what effects viral meningitis has on people for up to a year after the episode of meningitis.”