A Cumberland County college is under a health advisory after a member of the community was hospitalized with a possible diagnosis of bacterial meningitis infection.
The Department of Public Health (DPH) was notified on Saturday of a member of the Methodist University campus was hospitalized with a possible case of bacterial meningitis infection. The university has since issued a campus-wide notification about the possible diagnosis and safety measures are being taken.
Health officials are coordinating with the university to provide preventative antibiotics to anyone who had direct close contact with the hospitalized person. The Health Department and Student Health Services are investigating to identify people who may need to receive the medication.
Meningitis is described as an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is normally brought about by a viral disease yet can likewise be bacterial or parasitic. vaccines can prevent a few types of meningitis.
Symptoms may incorporate a sudden onset of fever, rash, severe headache, stomach pain, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting. It generally spreads by airborne respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes). Depending upon the reason, meningitis may improve without anyone else.
It can likewise be life-threatening and may require pressing anti-infection treatment.
The release also stated that preventive antibiotic treatment is only recommended for individuals who might have had contact with the ill person’s saliva.
Anyone with concerns or questions may call the Department of Public Health at (910) 433-3645 or (910) 433-3655.
