Massapequa Student Diagnosed With Meningococcal Meningitis

Guess we really do have to get those pesky vaccines for a reason.

A 16-year-old Massapequa student was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis on Friday, according to the Nassau County Department of Health.

The person, who has not been identified, is currently being treated at a nearby hospital.

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection of the bloodstream which is spread by close contact of mucus discharge from an infected individual, usually via throat or nose. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, stiff neck and rash.

The Department of Heath stresses that casual contact, such as in schools or offices, is usually not significant enough to cause concern.  However, those that think they have come into contact with the disease or believe they have symptoms are encouraged to contact their doctor immediately.

Learn more about meningococcal disease here.