What caused the Maryland meningitis outbreak of 2014?

ECHO virus, a strain of enterovirus, caused the Maryland meningitis outbreak of 2014, reports CBS Baltimore. The virus commonly causes viral meningitis, and no vaccine or treatment exists for the infection as of June 2015. At least 31 people were infected on the University of Maryland campus.

Similar to the flu and less dangerous than bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis produces headaches, fever, a stiff neck and sensitivity to light. Patients usually experience symptoms for up to five days, notes CBS Baltimore. Frequent hand washing, staying home when sick, avoiding kissing, and not sharing personal eating and drinking utensils can minimize the spread of the ECHO virus.