What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by bacteria or a virus. Type B bacteria are suspected to be the cause of a recent outbreak in Eugene. Most people recover, but it can cause brain damage, hearing loss or learning disabilities.
What are the symptoms?
Early symptoms are similar to the flu and can include fever, headache, a stiff neck, confusion, drowsiness, rash and increased sensitivity to light. Symptoms can appear quickly, but typically develop within three to seven days after exposure.
If you notice symptoms, call Lane’s Health Clinic to be screened over the phone by a health professional. If symptoms are severe and sudden, consider going to a hospital emergency room. If the clinic is closed please call Lane County Public Health Department or visit your local emergency room.
Lane Health Clinic: (541) 463-5665
UO Health Center: 541-346-2770
Lane County Public Health: 541-682-4140
Information provided by Lane Community College administration.
Edited for content by The Torch.