A story on CBS News says the current meningitis outbreak presents a unique challenge for medical professionals dealing with it. That’s because the fungus causing it has never before been associated with meningitis.
The report quotes Dr. Arjun Srinivasan of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as saying: “I don’t think there is a precedent for this kind of thing … This is definitely new territory for us.”
Meningitis is a potentially deadly inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain and the spine. The current outbreak has been traced to a fungus contaminating steroid medication from a specialty pharmacy in Massachusetts called the New England Compounding Center.
According to the CDC, the outbreak has spread to 18 states — sickening 328 people and killing 24.
Srinivasan said the fungus appears to be well-adapted for getting around the body’s immune systems. That, combined with the fact that the medication is injected near the spine, has made it particularly problematic.
But the story says doctors are putting together clues that offer some hope. For example, patients who get treatment early appear to have a better chance of recovery.
Lopez McHugh is investigating cases related to this outbreak. If you or a loved one had an injection and were diagnosed with meningitis, you should consult with a Lopez McHugh lawyer for a free consultation.
See the story here:
https://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57540934/unprecedented-black-mold-meningitis-a-challenge/
