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Westfield students exposed to meningitis
Administrators and staff at Westfield High School have canceled band practice and are cleaning the school after a former student was diagnosed with meningitis.The Westfield graduate was helping with the band at the school before he was diagnosed, according to Paul Regnier, a Fairfax County Public Schools spokesman.
The disease is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord and, in the most severe cases, is life-threatening.
School officials found out and canceled band practice Aug. 18 and 19 as of press time Tuesday, Regnier said.
They are now waiting to see if the meningitis was bacterial or the less contagious viral. Mike Andrews, a spokesman for the county's health department, said it's unlikely that it was bacterial because the patient and his doctor would be required to report that to the department within 24 hours.
The school system has taken appropriate action so far, Andrews said. “With any type of meningitis, we always emphasize the importance of hygiene.”
The Meningitis Foundation of America (MFA), a national organization, would like the public and media to know that information is available regarding the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of meningitis. MFA was founded by parents whose children were affected by meningitis. In addition to supporting vaccines and other means of preventing meningitis, the MFA provides information to educate the public and medical professionals so that the early diagnosis, treatment and, most important, prevention of meningitis, will save lives. Meningitis is a dangerous and sometimes fatal inflammation of the brain and/or spinal cord that can leave survivors with serious life-long physical problems such as deafness, brain damage and other disabilities, meningitis can sometimes result in loss of limbs. MFA would like to be considered as a news resource for the disease. For further information, visit the MFA website at www.musa.org.
MFA is proud to announce the new C.I.S.S. Container Identification Scratch System
When we participate in sporting events or mingle at social gatherings it is possible to lose track of our water bottles and/or beverage cans, especially those served in containers that are very similar or identical to a container from which you are drinking. This carries the risk of transmitting an illness, such as meningitis or the common cold or flu. The Container Identification Scratch System, or C.I.S.S., is a fun way to make sure you always know your drink from others. Use it at sporting events or at a family gatherings and reduce the waste from forgotten drinks. Simply scratch your number from the C.I.S.S. label and identify your drink. For more information please contact Bob Gold at Ciss.bob@gmail.com and www.musa.org
Thank you,
Ms. Jamie Callahan, General Manager
Meningitis Foundation of America
212 W 10th Street, Suite B-330
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(800) 668-1129
www.musa.org
Posted by MUSAorg
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