Public Health Services

7 Mellor Avenue, Unit #5

Dartmouth, NS B3B 0E8

Tel # (902) 481-5800

Fax # (902) 481-5923

January 22, 2015

RE: UPDATE - MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE CONFIRMED
Dear Parent,
I am writing to update you that we have received laboratory confirmation that a student who regularly attends
Sackville High School has been diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis.
Public Health takes cases of meningococcal meningitis seriously. We continue in the process of identifying
people who may have been exposed and contacting them directly. This disease does not spread through the air
or through casual exposure, so risk to students attending Sackville High School of contracting the disease is low.
At this time, Public Health Services is not recommending that students at Sackville High School receive any
medication or vaccine. We will be contacting anyone who may have been in direct contact with the infected
student.
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection. It is spread by direct secretions from the nose and mouth through
activities such as kissing, and sharing food, drinks, water bottles, toothbrushes, eating utensils or cigarettes. This
illness is not spread by sitting next to someone, taking a class with someone, or walking in the halls with
someone who is sick with the illness.
Symptoms of meningitis include changes in level of alertness, fever, stiff neck, a rash, or any illness that seems
more serious than usual. We always recommend seeking medical attention immediately if a child becomes ill
with any of these symptoms.
If you or your family doctor requires further information, or if you are concerned that your child may have been
directly exposed, please contact Public Health at 902-481-5800.
For more information on meningococcal disease, see the attached information sheet. Thank you.
Sincerely,

Robin Taylor, MD, PhD, FRCPC

Medical Officer of Health