Encephalitis is a disease characterised by inflammation of the encephalon. An important element to take into account in this pathology is that it has several causes, among which viral and metabolic are the most important. This clinical picture generally manifests itself with headache, altered mental state, seizures, focal signs, movement disorders, and in some cases also manifested with meningeal or cortical signs, depending on whether it is multi-focal or focal. It is important to consider post-infectious or para-infectious processes in encephalitis. The most important thing is always to take into account onset, progression and speed, together with contact with sick people. In suspected viral encephalitis, aciclovir 10 mg/kg/every 8 hours for 14 days is recommended. The aim of this literature review is to show how the treatment of viral encephalitis has changed over the years, considering possible elements that may improve or worsen the prognosis.