
|
| Update on Meningitis at Ross Memorial Hosptial | | Print | |
|
Lindsay, February 16, 2007
Earlier this week, Ross Memorial Hospital confirmed two cases of meningitis from the community. There have been no new cases identified. The Screening Clinic located at Ross Memorial for individuals contacted by the Public Health Unit has now been closed. The After Hours Clinic will resume its regular hours beginning tonight at 6pm. “We are pleased with the response from our staff and physicians, the Health Unit and the community to this situation,” said Brian Payne, President & CEO. “Everyone entering either the hospital or screening clinic yesterday was asked to wear a mask until they completed a screening process, and we appreciated the cooperation and patience we saw from everyone involved.” “Ross Memorial would like to take the opportunity to thank Shoppers Drug Mart for their support,” added Payne. Meningococcal disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria neisseria meningitidis. The bacteria are found in the throat and nose in 10 percent of healthy individuals. In rare instances, the bacteria can overcome the body's natural defenses and cause serious disease. The two serious forms of the disease are an infection of the lining of the brain called “meningococcal meningitis” and a blood infection called “meningococcemia”. The disease spreads through saliva by close face-to-face contact, usually by kissing or sharing food, drink, musical instruments, water bottles, cigarettes or other things that have been in the mouth of a person with the disease. -30-
For information contact: |