Update: While an email was sent home to parents of Glen Ridge high school students detailing how the Montclair Board of Health had identified a high school student as diagnosed with meningitis, we've just learned from Montclair BOE's Laura Federico that the student is not from Montclair, but from Glen Ridge. Despite any confusion the memo's wording may cause, if you have a high school student who might be friendly with kids from different schools, here's some good info regarding the disease and signs to watch out for:

The chance of your child also becoming ill with this disease is very small, however, in order to protect the health and safety of all students and staff, please read the following information carefully. Meningitis is an infection. The disease is spread by prolonged, close contact with someone who has the illness. The disease is spread by coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing cups, bottles, or eating utensils with the ill person. Even after exposure to the infection, it is very unusual to get infected, and it takes 2-10 days before symptoms appear. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and a rash. These symptoms need immediate medical attention. Diagnosis can be made by laboratory tests of blood or spinal fluid. Early treatment is important. Vaccine is only used for some forms of meningitis, and is only used during an outbreak when there is more than one case of the disease. 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. If you need more information on meningitis, please contact your family doctor or the Montclair Department of Health at 973-509-4980. Please do not call the school for information on the illness, or for an update on the infected student’s condition. School administrators will work closely with public health officials to keep you informed of the situation as necessary.

October 21, 2005 in Paranoia Beat | Permalink