GPISD Parents:
As you have probably learned by now, three confirmed
cases of meningococcal disease with one fatality have occurred
in the town of Cleveland in Libery County.
To this date, NO CASES of Meningcoccal
Meningitis has been suspected or reported in Galena Park Independent
School District. However to prevent the spread of the
disease, GPISD officials wish to share with you some information
provided by the Texas Department of Health (TDH) regarding Meningococcal
Disease.
Definition:
Meningococcal disease is an acute bacteria infection, characterized
by sudden onset of fever, intense headache, nausea and often
vomiting, stiff nexk, shock-like symtoms and frequently, a rash
with purple or pink bumps.
Safety Precautions:
Close contacts of confirmed and strongly suspected cases should
contact a physician to prevent possible infection. Close contact
is defined as follows:
- Anyone that lives in the same household or attends the same
childcare facilities the person diagnosed with suspected confirmed
Meningococcal Disease.
- Anyone who has contact with the patient... through kissing
or drinking and eating after an infected person during the
7 days before onset of disease in the patient or medical personnel
who may have preformed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and the
like. In addition, persons who frequently eat or sleep in
the same dwelling within this period of time should contact
their personal physician for consultation and or treatment.
TDH recommends that an individual assessment be made for each
potential contact.
Please follow the additional information found on this website
for
FACTS
ABOUT MENINGOCOCCAL MENINGITIS. Should you have any questions,
please contact Pat Travis, Director of Health and Intervention
Services at 832-386-1032.