Maie Ellis student hospitalized with meningitis

A student from Maie Ellis Elementary School has contracted a case of viral meningitis, according to Fallbrook Union Elementary School District Nurse Laureen Henegar.

School officials have already communicated with parents of students at Maie Ellis Elementary School to be aware of the following symptoms, should they arise:

•Flu-like symptoms

•Fever

•Severe and persistent headache

•Stiff and painful neck, especially when trying to touch the chin to the chest

•Vomiting

Viral meningitis is much less severe than bacterial meningitis, Henegar said. The nurse went on to say that the affected student is doing well. Family sources report that the child is hospitalized at Children’s Hospital. At this time, no other cases have been reported in Fallbrook.

The best way to combat contracting the virus is by washing hands and not sharing food, drinks or utensils, according to WebMD.com.