What is the encephalitis pathogen?

Encephalitis can be caused by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The most common viral causes include herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and arboviruses like West Nile virus and Japanese encephalitis virus. Bacterial causes can include infections like syphilis or Lyme disease. The specific pathogen often determines the severity, treatment, and prognosis of the disease.