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Meningitis Case Suspected at Duchess Park

By 250 News

A 13 year old  Duchess Park studednt has been transferred to Vancouver for further testing of what is believed  to be meningococcal meningitis.

“Northern Health is providing a preventive antibiotic to close contacts of the student to minimize the chance of any further infections. We are closely monitoring the school for any other suspected cases,” said NH Medical Health Officer Dr. Lorna Medd. “The Northern Health Region typically sees a handful of meningococcal meningitis cases every year. Public Health nurses from the Northern Interior Health will take steps if additional cases may appear.”

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial disease that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease is spread through activities that involve the sharing of saliva, such as kissing as well as sharing food or cigarettes. It is not typically spread through contact with surfaces (I.E.: sitting on a toilet seat or touching a door-knob after someone who’s carrying the bacterium). It is not airborne, and requires close contact for transmission.

Symptoms may include sudden onset of high fever, a headache, nausea/vomiting, neck stiffness, and frequently a rash. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal. The disease often affects adolescents. Antibiotics are typically used to treat the disease.

“We advise parents to know the symptoms of meningitis, in order to access timely treatment,” added Dr. Medd. “If parents notice that their children have a fever and are getting sick very quickly, they should seek medical advice.”


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