Shiloh
Editor, Senior Moderator
Source: http://www.theobserver.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2232801
Lambton child has meningitis
Posted By By Cathy Dobson
A local child was taken to hospital in London Monday with a confirmed case of bacterial meningitis.
Anyone who has been in close contact with the child is being contacted today by public health authorities, said Vicki Hawksworth, supervisor with Lambton's Community Health Services.
The health unit is not releasing the name, sex or age of the child but Hawksworth described the child as young and not in school or daycare.
Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and is a communicable disease spread through the nose and throat secretions of a sick person.
"You get it by sharing utensils or a glass with someone who is ill," Hawksworth said. "It must be very close contact."
Symptoms can include the sudden onset of a high fever; intense headache; nausea/vomiting; a stiff neck; lethargy or drowsiness and a pinpoint, blotchy rash.
There are two kinds of meningitis. Viral meningitis is generally not as serious. Bacterial meningitis is more serious but can be treated with antibiotics.
"We investigate every report and contact all close contacts," Hawksworth said. "If you haven't received a call, you are not in a risk group."
Lambton child has meningitis
Posted By By Cathy Dobson
A local child was taken to hospital in London Monday with a confirmed case of bacterial meningitis.
Anyone who has been in close contact with the child is being contacted today by public health authorities, said Vicki Hawksworth, supervisor with Lambton's Community Health Services.
The health unit is not releasing the name, sex or age of the child but Hawksworth described the child as young and not in school or daycare.
Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and is a communicable disease spread through the nose and throat secretions of a sick person.
"You get it by sharing utensils or a glass with someone who is ill," Hawksworth said. "It must be very close contact."
Symptoms can include the sudden onset of a high fever; intense headache; nausea/vomiting; a stiff neck; lethargy or drowsiness and a pinpoint, blotchy rash.
There are two kinds of meningitis. Viral meningitis is generally not as serious. Bacterial meningitis is more serious but can be treated with antibiotics.
"We investigate every report and contact all close contacts," Hawksworth said. "If you haven't received a call, you are not in a risk group."