Meningitis reported in Wiscasset, Maine according to the CDC

A student attending Middle High School Wiscasset has a confirmed case of bacterial meningitis, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tests confirmed the case Tuesday, the agency said in a statement.

"The risk to the public is very low," said Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Maine CDC. "Guards must be aware of this condition so they can immediately see a doctor if they have any of the symptoms."

The Maine CDC has informed the case of Wiscasset Middle High School and local medical facilities and uses it to inform people who might have been exposed.

"The student attended two public events during his contagious period: the Wiscasset College Alumni Banquet on June 1st and the Wiscasset College Graduation on June 6th. There is no specific action on the part of students, staff or banquet visitors, or graduation should take in response, "the statement said.

Symptoms of bacterial meningitis, an inflammation of the brain caused by infection, include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sensitivity to light, dark purple rash, and confusion.

Bacterial meningitis is rare in Maine. One case was reported in 2018 and one in 2017, according to the agency.

Bacteria are transmitted to others by saliva. Meningitis is not as contagious as colds and flu and does not spread through the air, on surfaces, in stool or in the urine.

"It usually takes close or extended contact, such as kissing and sharing food or drinks, to spread these bacteria," according to the Maine CDC. "Close contacts include those who live with the individual and all those who have had direct contact with the saliva of the individual. Close contacts may receive antibiotics, which may prevent the disease. Maine CDCs work closely with the student's family and physicians in the area to ensure that the student's close contacts receive antibiotics. Classmates, teachers, staff and graduates are not considered close contacts and the Maine CDC does not recommend antibiotics. "

For the 2018-2019 school year, Maine introduced a new meningitis vaccine requirement for students entering grades seven and twelve.

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