Kita closed because of meningitis

Kita in Wasbek closed due to meningitis

07/05/2013

A daycare center in Wasbek-Schlesstein had to be closed because of several cases of meningitis. Already on Thursday, the day care center in Wasbek was closed as a precautionary measure because of the meningitis illnesses, according to the news agency „dpa“ citing the statement of the health director in the district Rendsburg-Eckernförde, Armin Kalmbach.

In the municipality of Wasbek and the surrounding area to the west of Neumünster, according to recent reports, at least seven children and adults have been diagnosed with meningitis. Five people were taken care of in the hospital. The 150 children who attend the community daycare center have to stay home since Thursday due to a potential risk of infection. According to the head of the health department, two cases occurred directly to the children of the day-care center and five other illnesses in the immediate vicinity. For two and a half weeks, the day care center in Wasbek remains closed, in the hope that the cause of the illness can be determined by then.

Known meningitis just the tip of the iceberg?
At the end of June, the first suspected case of meningitis disease had occurred in Wasbek. Since then, six other illnesses have become known, with the reported cases presumably representing only the tip of the iceberg according to Armin Kalmbach. It can be assumed that the disease is often not recognized by those affected or rather perceived as summer flu. The meningitis is probably caused by enteric viruses, but here further analysis is required before a reliable statement can be made.

Viruses trigger triggers of meningitis
Entero viruses are usually transmitted by the faecal-oral route, often with a lack of hygiene after the toilet being used. The pathogens then reach the everyday objects via the contaminated hands and can stay here for a longer period of time. It is also possible a spread over swimming pools or even the drinking water. The viral meningitis can generally only be treated with restrictions. The body has to overcome the disease itself and treatment usually focuses on alleviating the symptoms. „That's like a flu. We just have to sit out that“, quotes the „dpa“ the head of the health department in the district Rendsburg-Eckernförde. However, the risk of complications during the course of the disease should not be underestimated.

Threatening serious health damage from meningitis
Symptoms such as headache, fever, impaired consciousness, nausea and vomiting are typical symptoms of meningitis. In addition, severe impairments can occur, with a convulsively stiff neck is to be evaluated as a critical warning sign. This is often associated with the development of so-called cerebral edema, which in turn can cause considerable further discomfort. Neurological deficits such as visual disturbances, hearing loss, epileptic seizures or paralysis may occur. In the worst case, meningitis can also lead to the death of those affected. (Fp)

Picture: Erich Westendarp