UMaine community health update, Oct. 19, 2018
Two unrelated cases of viral meningitis were reported to Cutler Health Center officials this week. Viral meningitis is the most common form of meningitis and less severe than bacterial meningitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In most cases, there is no specific treatment, and people with a mild case of viral meningitis recover on their own, usually within 10 days.
The two people who have been diagnosed with viral meningitis by their health care providers are not attending classes or labs until their symptoms subside.
No new cases have been reported.
Prevention steps recommended by the CDC are comparable to those recommended during cold and flu season:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, or coughing or blowing your nose.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper shirt sleeve, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
Members of the UMaine community with questions or concerns can contact Dick Young, at 207-356-2518; ryoung@maine.edu.