For Immediate Release
October 17, 2003

Contact: Howard Sutter
(714) 834-2178

Update on Increase in Meningitis

(Santa Ana) - Orange County, along with the rest of the state and other areas of the country, is experiencing an increase of viral meningitis, which is typically a milder illness than the bacterial form of meningitis. "Viral meningitis is generally not a threat to a person’s health, however it must be differentiated from bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and must be treated with antibiotics as soon as possible,” said County Epidemiologist Dr. Hildy Meyers.

Bacterial meningitis does occur every year here in Orange County, but there is no increase in this type of meningitis and no outbreaks at this time. Recently there was a death due to bacterial meningitis in a young child who attended a pre-school in the City of Orange. No one else became ill. There was an unrelated case of viral meningitis in a child who attends a different pre-school, also in the City of Orange. These cases may have sparked concerns of an outbreak. There is also a case of bacterial meningitis in an adult in Anaheim—again there is no evidence that any of these cases are related.

“Anyone exhibiting meningitis symptoms such as fever and headache with a stiff neck; nausea and vomiting; or mental status changes like drowsiness or confusion, should seek medical attention immediately,” said County Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton.

The Health Care Agency is working to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent the spread of the disease.

To help prevent infection, good hygiene is important. Recommendations include:

• Washing your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers, before preparing food, and after any contact with oral secretions.

• Avoiding the sharing of water bottles or other items that might go into the mouth.

• Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

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