Today is the end of the 42 day risk period for contracting fungal meningitis from tainted steroids, according to federal regulators. But it may be too premature to celebrate. Although these tainted steroids were recalled on September 26, it is possible that these steroids could have worked their way into circulation due to human error. And it is possible that regulators could have gotten the risk window wrong. As always, there is no exact number when it comes to science and health risk.
With 18 new cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) last Friday, it seems that this outbreak has continued to grow. To date, 409 fungal meningitis cases, including 30 deaths, have been reported to the CDC. Could this number continue to grow if the 42 day period has ended?
"Forty-two days is not a magic number by any sense of the word," said fungal expert Dr. Tom Chiller, the deputy chief of the CDC's Mycotic Diseases Branch. "This is a moving target. The outbreak is evolving."
What Symptoms to Look For
As the outbreak evolves and victims obtain treatment, new symptoms and new disturbing evidence is emerging. Treatment itself is not guaranteeing that these people are in the clear. The people who contracted fungal meningitis and were treated are coming back with abscesses filled with fungus and pus located near the injection site.
If you experience the following symptoms, please seek medical help:
- headache
- fever
- nausea
- dizziness
- stiff neck
- weakness or numbness
- photosensitivity or sensitivity to light
- slurred speech and pain
- redness or swelling at the injection site
What to Do if You Have Contracted Fungal Meningitis
If you have contracted fungal meningitis, seek immediate medical attention. Do not delay. Get yourself to an emergency room quickly. Keep a close watch on your symptoms and how your body is responding to treatment. Because people are continuing to show symptoms and continuing to experience problems after treatment, you need to keep a close watch on how your body is responding. You may also want to consult a trusted personal injury and product liability attorney to discuss how you can obtain financial compensation for your injuries.
