The Middlesex-London Health Unit has become aware of a case of Meningococcal Disease in a child. The child attended Jalna Library Story-Time drop-in from 10-11am on Wednesday, January 25th. The Health Unit is investigating this case to ensure that appropriate antibiotic treatment is provided to those exposed to this child.

The Health Unit is advising ONLY those who attended Jalna Library Story Time drop-in between 10am-11am on Wednesday, January 25th, 2017, to contact the Health Unit at: 519-663-5317 and press 2

Also, the Health Unit provides the following advice:

• Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of meningococcal disease are observed, as the illness progresses rapidly. Symptoms can include: sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting and the development of a red pin-point rash. Babies may also be very irritable or drowsy;
• Do not share drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, musical instrument mouth pieces or other objects that have been exposed to saliva or nasal secretions;
• Avoid kissing children on the mouth;
• frequent cleaning of toys that children place in their mouth; and,
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer will decrease the chances of getting respiratory infections.

NOTE: There is no additional risk to anyone who attended this library before or after January 25th. Further, ONLY those who attended the Story Time drop-in between 10-11am on Wednesday, January 25th may have been exposed.

Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 extension 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)

Spokesperson:
Tristan Squire-Smith, Manager of Infectious Disease Control