Final answer:
Herpes simplex virus encephalitis is the most common cause of acute nonepidemic encephalitis, with arboviral encephalitis being significant but less common. Arboviruses have wildlife reservoirs and are transmitted by mosquitoes, making eradication difficult.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common cause of acute nonepidemic encephalitis is Herpes simplex virus encephalitis (HSVE). Although arboviruses like Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), Western equine encephalitis (WEE), St. Louis encephalitis, and West Nile encephalitis are significant causes of encephalitis, HSVE is considered the most frequent cause of sporadic fatal encephalitis worldwide. Arboviral encephalitis viruses are unlikely to be eradicated because they have natural reservoirs in wildlife, such as birds, and are transmitted by arthropods like mosquitoes, which are widespread and adaptable to various environments.
Herpes simplex encephalitis is caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type 1(HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 causes encephalitis in children beyond the neonatal period and in adults, and it is the most common etiology for sporadic non-seasonal encephalitis worldwide. HSV-2 commonly causes encephalitis in neonates and the immunocompromised. Herpes simplex encephalitis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in adults and children despite antiviral treatment. This activity reviews the evaluation and management of herpes simplex encephalitis, stressing the need for close coordination and communication between various healthcare professional teams to ensure the best outcome for individual patients.