Case of Viral Meningitis Reported at D.C. Primary School

Case was reported at Peabody Primary Campus, a public school in the Capitol Hill Cluster Community

Viral meningitis was recently reported at a D.C. primary school, according to a letter from the D.C. Department of Health.

Two possible adult cases were reported at Peabody Primary Campus, a public school in the Capitol Hill Cluster Community. One parent told News4's Derrick Ward his daughter's teacher was diagnosed.

Three-to-six custodians spent Monday disinfecting surfaces students and staff might touch, according to a letter from the principal to the community. More intensive cleaning is scheduled for Monday evening.

Viral meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms can include fever, severe headaches, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, drowsiness, confusion, or nausea and vomiting, according to the D.C. Department of Health. However, symptoms can vary from person to person.

The D.C. Department of Health says it's serious but rarely fatal and can't be treated by antibiotics. Most patients recover on their own.

The letter from the D.C. Department of Health does not specify whether the meningitis case involves a teacher, student or other person.

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Peabody teaches pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students. The school sent out a letter Monday, telling parents that staff has been disinfecting surfaces throughout the day and will conduct more extensive cleaning Monday night. The letter also included information on viral meningitis.

Anyone in the Peabody community with questions or concerns is encouraged to call their health care provider or contact the school nurse at 202-730-1681.

Viral meningitis was also recently identified at the University of Maryland.

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