To
increase your knowledge and reduce anxiety,
the Health Department wishes to review meningococcal
disease after the recent death of a young
child from this disease Normally the chance
of your young child becoming ill with this
disease is very small. In a very small number
of individuals, the bacterium becomes invasive
and causes an infection to the blood or
the mininges. We want to review the following
information carefully.
1.
Meningococcal disease (meningitis) is an
infection caused by bacteria. The disease
is spread by prolonged close contact with
someone who has the illness. The bacteria
is spread by coughing, sneezing, kissing,
or sharing cups, bottles or eating utensils
with the ill person. Even after exposure
to the bacteria, it is very unusual to get
infected, and it takes 2-10 days before
symptoms appear.
2.
Symptoms may include neck stiffness, which
is the most common symptom, fever, headache,
nausea, vomiting and irritability. A rash
may appear, but usually occurs late in the
illness. These symptoms require immediate
medical attention. Early treatment is important.
The infection can be treated with antibiotics
and most patients recover completely. An
infected person is no longer communicable
after 24 hours of antibiotic therapy.
3.
Diagnosis is confirmed by laboratory tests
of blood or spinal fluid.
4.
To prevent the spread of infection, common
sense should be used. Frequent hand washing
is important. Cover the nose and mouth with
tissues if coughing or sneezing. Avoid sharing
eating utensils, toothbrushes, cups, drinking
glasses or water bottles.
5.
If you need more information, please contact
the State Hotline at 1 866 234-0964, the
Livingston Health Department at 973 535-7961,
or your local physician.
Louis
Anello, director
Janet Traettino, nursing supervisor
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