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Press Release: Increase in Viral Meningitis
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Press Release: Increase in Viral Meningitis
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The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department is currently experiencing increased reports of viral meningitis. This is not uncommon for this time of the year since the viruses that cause most cases of viral meningitis (referred to as “enteroviruses”) are more prevalent during the late summer and early fall. People infected with enteroviruses usually only experience a mild illness similar to the common cold, but some people, especially young children, may develop meningitis which is the inflammation of the brain lining. Enteroviruses are spread by coming in contact with the respiratory secretions or stool of infected individuals. You may also become infected by coming in contact with contaminated objects such as water bottles, utensils, computer keyboards and telephones. This is also the time children and adolescents are returning to school and engaging in sports, thereby, allowing for these viruses to spread. As commented by Dr. Grossman, “children playing sports should not share water bottles or other personal items.” As with many other diseases, hand washing is the most effective tool for preventing the spread of illness.
Viral meningitis is often confused with the more severe illness, bacterial meningitis. The symptoms of both usually include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, avoidance of bright lights, drowsiness or confusion, nausea and vomiting. Although people usually fully recover from viral meningitis, anyone experiencing symptoms of meningitis should seek immediate medical evaluation. For more information about enteroviruses and viral meningitis, please refer to the Enteroviruses and Viral Meningitis fact sheet.
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