Florida fourth grader dies of meningitis, health officials say

Rachel Tucker
·1 min read

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A 9-year-old Florida boy has died of meningitis, the Florida Department of Health confirmed to NBC affiliate WESH on Friday.

The fourth grader attended Burns Science and Technology Charter School in Oak Hill, which is a city in Volusia County.

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Health officials notified parents of 44 students who had close contact with the boy. A statement from the school disclosed a confirmed meningitis case in the classroom and urged all parents to “keep an eye on” their child.

“This has rocked us to the core and we feel terrible for the family of this boy. We are taking all necessary precautions to protect our other students,” spokesperson for the charter school told WESH.

Meningitis is a disease, typically triggered by an infection, that causes inflammation in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The infection is most commonly caused by bacteria or a virus, but it is possible for it to spread through parasites, fungus or amoeba.

Bacterial meningitis is the most severe and spreads though close contact, which is why, for example, many college students are required to have proof of vaccination against the disease in order to live on campus. People with bacterial meningitis can experience seizures, coma or even death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Meningitis symptoms include sudden onset of:

  • Fever

  • Headache

  • Stiff neck

There are often other symptoms, including:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)

  • Altered mental status (confusion)

Anyone who suspects they have meningitis is urged to get medical attention right away.

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