Severe Meningitis Case Involving Teen

Students and parents have been sent warnings after a a 16 year old Coldstream student contracted a severe case of meningitis.

The female student at Kalamalka Secondary — is being treated in a Vancouver hospital, where she is said to be in a medically-induced coma.

Dr. Karin Goodison from Interior Health says they’re working closely with the school  to ensure anyone who might have been close to her has been provided with information…and antibiotics to prevent getting it.

The health agency will also be offering immunizations at the school this week.

Goodison says the bacteria that causes more severe cases, can see fatality rates as high as 10 to 15 per cent

Symptoms can include a high fever, severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, rash, drowsiness or seizures.