A case of meningitis has been confirmed at Old Mill Pond School in Palmer. A student or staff member at Old Mill Pond School in Palmer has been diagnosed with mild meningitis, according to Superintendent Patricia Gardner.
A letter was sent home to parents warning them of the situation, but one parent thinks it wasn’t detailed enough.
“Mainly, they don’t explain what grade it was in, if it was a concern for just my class, or if it was the whole school. They don’t say if the kid is staying home, and that’s my main concern.” Robert Tanguay, parent
In a statement to 22News from the Superintendent:
“There is no need for alarm. Parents should be vigilant about ensuring their children are vaccinated and encourage frequent hand washing. Close contact can spread meningitis, but being infected does not mean that one will actually develop meningitis.”
Symptoms of meningitis include high fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting and skin rash.
The school is warning parents that they should immediately contact a doctor if a child has these symptoms. Parents should also let the school know about any meningitis diagnosis.
“I just wish I had known about it. It would have been nice. I just want the best for my kids.” Ryan Novia.
Gardener said that most people who get this less severe strain of the disease usually recover on their own.
