Case of meningitis at Methodist University in Fayetteville appears to be isolated

Health officials in Cumberland County confirmed on Monday that a member of the Methodist University community hospitalized over the weekend has meningococcal meningitis.

They spent Sunday and Monday making contact with those who might have made contact with the sick person. That person has not been identified, and it is not clear whether the person is a student, faculty or staff.

The Cumberland County Department of Public Health found no additional cases of suspected bacterial meningitis. Individuals who may have been exposed were put on a course of preventative antibiotics.

"We think that we have gotten the correct medication to the correct people at this time, and we have no cause to believe there's been spread," said Dr. Lori Haigler, Cumberland County medical director.

Methodist University issued a campus-wide notification Saturday night about the possible diagnosis and the precautions being taken.

The incubation period for bacterial meningitis, the most serious types of meningitis, is about three to five days after initial contact with the microbe. However, in some individuals, bacterial meningitis symptoms can occur as rapidly as 24 hours.

Meningitis is an irritation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms may include sudden onset of fever, severe headache, rash, stiff neck, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting. It spreads through contact with saliva, like when people share utensils, foods, drinks or cigarettes or by kissing.

In a phone interview with WRAL News, Cumberland County Interim Health Director Duane Holder emphasized his organization is working closely with the university and with the state Division of Public Health in Raleigh.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the individual and the Methodist Community," Holder said. "Time is of the essence with a disease like this, and we want people to be aware of the situation."

Any members of the Methodist University campus community with questions or concerns should call Student Health Services at 910-630-7164. Other residents may call the Department of Public Health at 910-433-3645 or 910-433-3655.

Although meningitis can be very serious, even deadly, many patients make a full recovery if treated right away.