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Source: http://www.nebraska.tv/Global/story.asp?S=11446302
Meningitis in North Platte
Posted: Nov 4, 2009 08:03 PM
Updated: Nov 4, 2009 08:03 PM
A confirmed case of meningitis in Lincoln County sends one boy to the hospital, and has health officials investigating the cause of the sickness.
According to the boy's father, he is out of ICU and recovering nicely.
Of the four types of meningitis, the boy is suffering from bacterial meningitis which is most likely to affect people living or working in close proximity to each other.
Shannon Vanderheiden, the Director of West Central Health District said,"[it's spread] through the secretions of the nose and throat that has that menococcal bacteria. So once someone has started their antibiotic regimen, you want to isolate them for 24 hours. After that point they should not be contagious and can return to school or work."
The Lincoln County boy does attend a daycare in the area, but health officials think this case has been isolated. However, just like all meningitis cases, it's okay to be cautious.
According to Vanderheiden,"anyone in close contact, living in the home, anyone in an intimate type of situation, they want to look at being prophylaxed. We strongly encourage them to contact their doctor and consider antibiotic treatment."
Health experts say it is not the fault of the parents this child became sick, but the majority of meningitis cases are preventable by getting vaccinated.
While health officials in Lincoln County beleive this case is isolated, if you think you're sick, go see your doctor.
Meningitis in North Platte
Posted: Nov 4, 2009 08:03 PM
Updated: Nov 4, 2009 08:03 PM
A confirmed case of meningitis in Lincoln County sends one boy to the hospital, and has health officials investigating the cause of the sickness.
According to the boy's father, he is out of ICU and recovering nicely.
Of the four types of meningitis, the boy is suffering from bacterial meningitis which is most likely to affect people living or working in close proximity to each other.
Shannon Vanderheiden, the Director of West Central Health District said,"[it's spread] through the secretions of the nose and throat that has that menococcal bacteria. So once someone has started their antibiotic regimen, you want to isolate them for 24 hours. After that point they should not be contagious and can return to school or work."
The Lincoln County boy does attend a daycare in the area, but health officials think this case has been isolated. However, just like all meningitis cases, it's okay to be cautious.
According to Vanderheiden,"anyone in close contact, living in the home, anyone in an intimate type of situation, they want to look at being prophylaxed. We strongly encourage them to contact their doctor and consider antibiotic treatment."
Health experts say it is not the fault of the parents this child became sick, but the majority of meningitis cases are preventable by getting vaccinated.
While health officials in Lincoln County beleive this case is isolated, if you think you're sick, go see your doctor.