Sisters meningitis case isolated

A single case of meningitis was reported in Sisters last week. According to Karyn Anderson, a family nurse practioner with Bend Memorial Clinic, it was not the deadly meningococcal form of the illness.

Due to confidentiality rules, Anderson was unable to comment on the name or age of the child who contracted the disease, or who might have come into contact with the child.

However, Anderson said all those who came in contact with the affected child or are at risk were notified.

Meningitis involves the inflammation of the membrane that covers the brain. Some forms carry a high potential for death. That is not the case with the current Sisters instance.

"The little person is in the hospital and doing quite well," Anderson said last week.

According to Anderson, this form of meningitis "is not a very contagious disease," and folks should not be overly alarmed.

However, people should be aware of the disease, especially since it mimics some of the symptoms of the virus that has afflicted many locals.

Symptoms of meningitis include headache and fever; stiff neck; photophobia (the need to shy away from light); rash; upper respiratory problems; lethargy or fatigue.

Potential victims should be observed carefully and if there are any concerns, a visit to the doctor is in order.