Final answer:
Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir are used to treat herpes viral meningitis by managing symptoms and keeping the virus in a dormant state. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and are therefore not used in the treatment. These antivirals manage symptoms but do not cure the infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Herpes viral meningitis is treated using antiviral drugs, mainly acyclovir, which can be administered intravenously, especially in severe cases. For less severe cases or when intravenous treatment is not feasible, oral antiviral agents such as famciclovir or valacyclovir may be prescribed. The objective of these medications is to manage the infection by keeping the virus in its dormant phase and reducing the signs and symptoms.
In the absence of specific antiviral prophylaxis, management focuses on supportive care, including pain management and hydration. Unlike bacterial meningitis, antibiotics are ineffective for viral infections and are not used for treatment of herpes viral meningitis. If the patient is pregnant, antiviral medication might be prescribed during the last month of pregnancy to minimize risk of an outbreak and potential transmission to the infant at birth. It is important to note that while these antiviral medications help manage symptoms, they do not cure the HSV infection as the virus remains latent in the body for life.