Bacterial Meningitis Case in Wyandotte County

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and Wyandotte County Health Department are monitoring a case of bacterial meningitis diagnosed in a middle school student in Kansas City, Kansas. The student is being treated.

There are many types of bacterial meningitis and not all of them are easily transmitted or dangerous.

"We have no reason to believe that treating contacts with antibiotics would be useful in this situation," said Dr. Gail Hansen, Acting State Epidemiologist for Kansas Department of Health and Environment. "Antibiotics and vaccinations are useful for only specific kinds of bacterial meningitis and there are no indications of those bacteria in this case."

Bacterial meningitis occurs when bacteria bypass the body's defense system, and affect the brain and the covering of the brain. Illness ranges from mild to severe.

KDHE and Wyandotte County Health Department provide the following tips on preventing bacterial meningitis and its spread:

• Don't share water bottles, drinking glasses, or eating utensils.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Seek medical care if you have a very stiff neck or severe headache in combination with a fever.

"We hope the student has a speedy and full recovery," said Dr. Hansen.

The health departments and school are working closely together to provide accurate information to parents and to ensure the health and safety of the children in the school.

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