Metro Public Health Department Investigates
Fatal Case of Suspected Meningococcal Infection (meningitis)
in Margaret Allen Middle School Student

NASHVILLE, Tenn., February 13, 2008 -- The Metro Public Health Department is investigating a fatal case of suspected meningococcal infection (meningitis) in a student at Margaret Allen Middle School. The suspected case was reported to the Health Department today.

The Health Department and Metro Davidson County Public Schools sent a letter home with students at the school this afternoon to notify parents about the suspected infection.

Meningococcal disease is a rare but often serious bacterial infection. High fever, headache, and stiff neck are common symptoms. These symptoms can develop over several hours, or they may take one or two days.

It is possible for the bacteria that cause meningococcal infection to spread from person to person through saliva-sharing contact such as kissing, coughing or sneezing directly in the face, or sharing utensils.

The Meningococcal bacteria are not as easy to catch as viruses that cause the common cold or the flu. These bacteria do not live on surfaces and they are not spread by breathing the air where a person with the illness has been or by sitting in the same classroom or bus.

Medication to reduce the chances of infection is recommended only for people who have had saliva-sharing contact. This includes family members and other close contacts that might share food, beverages, or eating utensils.

Metro Public Health Department staff members are conducting an investigation to identify if there are those who would require the medication.

To prevent the spread of infectious diseases, common sense should be used. Frequent hand washing is important. Cover nose and mouth with tissues when coughing or sneezing. Avoid sharing eating utensils, toothbrushes, cups, drinking glasses, or water bottles.

Health Department staff will be available at Margaret Allen Middle School tomorrow and Friday to answer parent’s questions.

The Health Department’s Director of Health will be available this afternoon for interviews at the Lentz Health Center, 311 23rd Ave. North

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