WATERBORO — The number of confirmed cases of viral meningitis at Massabesic High School has increased from one to three as of 1 p.m. Monday, said Superintendent John A. Davis.
The first confirmed case came last weekend, and information was sent out to parents from the school district in a letter dated Saturday.
“We can find no specific connections such as a sports team, close friends or a family” among thee students who have the disease, Davis said in an email. He said it is his understanding that there are other cases in the region.
RSU 57 includes students from Alfred, Limerick, Lyman, Newfield, Shapleigh and Waterboro.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meningitis is an inflammation of the tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord. Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis, and is often less severe than other forms if the disease.
Symptoms in adults include fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to bright light, sleepiness or trouble waking from sleep, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite and lethargy. Symptoms in infants include fever, irritability, poor eating, sleepiness or trouble waking from sleep and lethargy, according to the Maine CDC.
The agency reported that transmission of the virus varies, but can include direct contact with someone who has it or through bites from an infected mosquito. They advised that anyone with symptoms should see their primary care provider to confirm viral meningitis.
— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.
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