What causes encephalitis?
What causes encephalitis?
The type of encephalitis you experience depends on the cause. And there are many causes, including:
- Viruses: Infections from herpes, enteroviruses, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), West Nile and tick-borne viruses lead to viral encephalitis. This is the most common cause.
- Problem with the immune system: The immune system can mistakenly attack the brain, causing autoimmune encephalitis.
- Bacteria and parasites: On rare occasions, these germs can cause bacterial encephalitis.