Viral encephalitis risk factors

Template:Encephalitis Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editors-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, MBBS [2]

Overview

Encephalitis is an acute inflammation of the brain, commonly caused by a viral infection. Sometimes, encephalitis can result from a bacterial infection, such as bacterial meningitis, or it may be a complication of other infectious diseases like rabies (viral) or syphilis (bacterial). Certain parasitic or protozoal infestations, such as toxoplasmosis, malaria, or primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, can also cause encephalitis in people with compromised immune systems.

Risk factors

• Age - In general, young children and older adults are at greater risk of most types of viral encephalitis.
• Weakened Immune system
• Certain geographical locations are more prone for ticks and mosquitoes bite
• Outdoor activities - It can increase the risk of insects bites
• Season of the year - it is commoner in summer and fall