Seven people have died after an outbreak of fungal meningitis linked to two clinics in Matamoros, Mexico, where Americans travel for procedures., as reported by US health officials on Thursday. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is monitoring these cases and is currently evaluating 34 cases of fungal meningitis associated with the two clinics, of which 9 are confirmed, 10 are probable and 15 are suspected.
Since May, the CDC and the Texas Department of State Health Services have issued travel warnings after possible fungal meningitis infections that lead to serious illness, and at least one death was initially diagnosed in people returning from Matamoros.
The CDC warns that patients travel from Texas to Matamoros to undergo various procedures (including liposuction) at the River Side Surgery Center and K-3 Clinic. “If you have had a procedure involving the injection of epidural anesthesia in Matamoros and you have any of these symptoms, go to an emergency room immediately. and let me know your procedure and where you’re traveling”.
More than 160 people are being watched With possible infections of meningitis, inflammation of the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or trauma. The disease “caused by bacteria or fungi can be a life-threatening illness if not treated promptly,” the agency added.
Symptoms of fungal meningitis infections include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion, or sensitivity to light.