There’s an increase in viral meningitis cases in the summertime.

Meningitis is an inflammation of your spine and spinal cord. There are two types, bacteria meningitis and viral meningitis, which is the most common and usually affects children and young adults.

It’s usually self-limiting and people recover in about a week.

Dr. Tina Stefanski, Regional Medical Director for Office of Public Health in Acadiana, says hospitalization is required, so it is serious and something to be concerned about

Washing your hands, covering your mouth when coughing, and not eating or drinking after other people are good tips to keep you safe.