9/6/23

 

As we reported last week, the Virginia Department of Health is keeping an eye on a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease.

Health department experts aren’t sure what led to a spread in cases over the last year. However, they’ve found that the existing cases are genetically related as most patients are African American adults between 30 and 60 years old.

State epidemiologist Dr. Laurie Forlano says that like most diseases, good hygiene is the best way to beat this one.

The disease usually presents symptoms like fever, headache, stiff neck and nausea, but can develop into more serious illnesses like meningitis.

The state has reported 27 cases of the disease since last summer, five of which were fatal.