Several schools in Genesee County have recently reported confirmed cases of viral or bacterial meningitis.

Swartz Creek, Montrose, Davison, Clio, Grand Blanc, and Beecher have all taken precautions and cleaned their buildings after having students diagnosed with meningitis.

Even though no confirmed cases have been reported at Kearsley schools, senior Breanne Batterbee is concerned about this meningitis outbreak.

“It’s a very serious issue, and I think it should be dealt with responsibly,” Batterbee said.

Meninges are coverings for the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

There are five types of meningitis: viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and non-infectious.

The two types found in students in area schools are bacterial and viral meningitis.

Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis and is less severe than bacterial meningitis.

The Genesee County Health Department said that bacterial meningitis is severe enough to require hospitalization.

Typically, people get better without using treatment within seven to 10 days while having viral meningitis. If you have bacterial meningitis, it’s recommended you see a doctor as soon as possible to receive an antibiotic treatment.

Common symptoms of viral meningitis in adults are fevers, headaches, a stiff neck, sensitivity to bright light, sleepiness or fatigue, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, and lethargy.

Symptoms of viral meningitis are similar to those of bacterial meningitis, but bacterial meningitis is usually more severe and may cause problems like brain damage, hearing loss, or learning disabilities.

The Genesee County Health Department sent out a press release in late September informing the community of the outbreak.

According to the Health Department, viral meningitis can be caused by the mumps virus, measles virus, varicella virus (chickenpox), influenza virus, and West Nile virus.

Bacterial and viral meningitis are typically spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or by sharing things touched by the mouth.

If one lives or works with someone who has or had meningitis, or if they have previously had a contagious infection, such as pneumonia or another virus, one is more likely to catch it.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests on its website that you take precautions in order to prevent contracting meningitis.

The CDC said it is best to try and stay away from someone who has meningitis and take precautions to stay clean of the virus or bacteria.

• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Avoid touching your mouth and eyes
• Cover your mouth when coughing
• Cover your nose when sneezing
• Maintain your immune system with regular sleep, exercise, and healthy eating
• Keep up with your immunizations

It is important to follow these precautions in order to help prevent viral and bacterial meningitis.

Mrs. Amy Graham, health teacher, believes that you should practice these precautions.

“There is only so much a school can do to prevent the spread,” Graham said. “They can clean, but, ultimately, it is up to the individual to practice good hygiene and good health practices to stay healthy.”