UPDATE: NO Unit 40 Student Has Tested Positive for Viral Meningitis

An update from earlier information we had received from the Effingham Unit 40 School District; there has NOT been a Unit 40 student test positive for viral meningitis. It was announced earlier by the school district Thursday that they had received word that a student had tested positive for viral meningitis. A phone notification was sent out Thursday to all Unit 40 parents and families. Since that time, word has come that NO student has tested positive.

Viral meningitis is usually spread by close contact, however very few who are exposed will develop meningitis. 

Viral meningitis is usually self-limiting and many will feel better after 7 to 10 days. Symptoms may include fever, headache, rash, stiff neck, nausea, irritability, vomiting, lack of energy, lack of appetite, eyes sensitive to light, and sleepiness or trouble waking up from sleep.

Doan said if your child experiences any of those symptoms, please keep them home from school and follow up with your health care provider. More information on viral meningitis can be found at www.cdc.gov/meningitis/viral.html.