Viral meningitis & contact with baby

[Kathyb15]

Hi all. I was diagnosed with viral men 4 weeks ago. My sis in law had a baby 2 weeks ago and I haven't yet seen the kid as don't wanna risk infection. Does anyone know how long I should wait before having contact with the baby?? Thanks

[StrawberryCream]

Hi Kathy. How lovely Aunty that you now have a new baby niece! Think I have got that relationship correct! Yes you must be really excited to see the baby and your brother and sister in law. How exciting! I maybe wrong but I don't think you can catch viral meningitis although the bugs that cause it are often ones that cause us the more common illnesses of coughs and colds etc. I think that VM occurs when our body for some reason, often associated with our immune system being a bit run down, allows the infection crosses the blood/brain barrier. However I could be completely wrong and I think the best advice I can give you is to ring the Meningitis Now helpline - 0808 80 10388 from 9-10pm. They will be able to discuss your situation with you and find out more information about how unwell you have been, which strain of virus etc to be able to advise you. They are very helpful. Hoping your recovery is going well. Best wishes