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Lab Results Not Yet In on Suspected Meningitis

By 250 News

Lab results expected later today, should  make it clear if a 13 year old Duchess Park student is in fact suffering from meningococcal meningitis.  The 13 year old was transferred to Vancouver after displaying symptoms related to the illness.

Here at home, appropximately 20 people who were in very close contact with the teen, have received preventive treatment  and its expected as many as ten more may come forward.

Northern Health Medical Health Officer, Dr. Lorna Medd says the Lab results will  give a definitive answer on the illness, and if it turns out to be meningitis, the results will also identify the strain.   The school system has  been vaccinating students in grades 6, 9 and 12 against type "C" meningitis.  

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial disease that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease is spread through close contact through activities that involve the sharing of saliva, such as kissing as well as sharing food or cigarettes. 

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

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