What type of viruses are most commonly associated with viral meningitis?

Non-polio enteroviruses are indeed the most common viral pathogens associated with viral meningitis. These viruses belong to a group that comprises many different serotypes and are known to cause a range of illnesses, particularly in children. They are highly prevalent and can be transmitted through fecal-oral routes, leading to widespread outbreaks, especially during warmer months.

Enteroviruses, specifically, can lead to aseptic meningitis, which is characterized by an increase in lymphocytes in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and a negative bacterial culture. This makes them a primary consideration when diagnosing viral meningitis. Their ability to replicate rapidly and cause widespread infection among populations further supports their role as the leading cause of viral meningitis cases.

While other viruses listed can also cause meningitis, they do not occur as frequently as non-polio enteroviruses. Herpes simplex viruses, for example, can lead to a more severe form of viral meningitis or even encephalitis, but they are less common overall. Human immunodeficiency virus is associated with various neurological complications, but it tends to result in different clinical syndromes rather than typical viral meningitis. Varicella-zoster virus primarily causes chickenpox and can lead to shingles but is not a