The Department of Health is investigating several suspected cases of viral meningitis in the Anglophone South School District.
Dr. Kim Barker, medical officer of health for the south region, sent a letter to parents this week.
Barker said the suspected cases all involve students, but did not say how many or which schools they go to.
“While sporadic cases of viral meningitis are expected, confusion can occur when the difference between viral and bacterial meningitis is not well understood,” wrote Barker.
Barker said bacterial meningitis is far less common and can cause serious illness which requires rapid treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications.
Viral meningitis, on the other hand, does not usually cause severe illness and most people recover within two weeks, she said.
Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Most forms are contagious and can be spread by kissing, coughing, sneezing and sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, water bottles, cigarettes or lipstick.
The most common symptoms include a stiff neck, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting.
Barker said meningitis can be prevented by ensuring your child has received all of their routine childhood immunizations, washing your hands frequently, covering your coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you are sick.
