Four die from rare strain of meningitis

Apr 23, 2009 1 min read

MIAMI (AP) – Miami-Dade County health officials say a rare strain of meningitis killed four in 12 recent cases.

Dr. Fermin Leguen said Wednesday he wants to inform the public to avoid more deaths or an outbreak. The contagious disease is curable with antibiotics but can be lethal if not treated quickly.

Symptoms include a high fever, headache, nausea and vomiting.

The health department is investigating but finds no link between the cases so far.

Officials advise residents and tourists to wash hands regularly and use caution in activities where saliva or bodily fluids can be transferred.

Officials said these cases started in December. The last case in South Florida was recorded in 2007.