BUFFALO, SC (WSPA) – The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control confirmed to Union County Schools officials that an employee at Buffalo Elementary School had been diagnosed with a common type of bacterial meningitis.
According to a letter from the elementary school’s Principal Stacy McAbee, the district was notified about the employee on Friday and said they began to work with DHEC to make sure all necessary precautions were being taken.
“There is no recommendation that anyone who may have come into contact with this individual at school receive any treatment,” McAbee said. “According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most of the viruses that cause meningitis are not as contagious as the common cold or the flu. A representative from DHEC confirmed to district administration, that this case was no more dangerous than the common cold or the flu. The symptoms of meningitis infection may be a sudden onset of fever, headache, and a stiff neck. Many times there may also be nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, or confusion. If you or anyone in your household exhibits these symptoms, seek medical attention.”
McAbee said they will continue to monitor all illnesses at the elementary school, including watching for any other patterns of symptoms or illness.
According to the release, McAbee said they will also continue to clean and sanitize the school and stay in contact with DHEC.
“Should parents have questions or concerns regarding illness, they should contact their doctor,” McAbee said.
