Meningitis Outbreak Caused by Contaminated Steroid Injections

A recent outbreak of fungal meningitis has impacted individuals across 23 states. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported 170 cases of fungal meningitis, including 14 fatalities. According to the CDC, the fungal meningitis outbreak was caused by contaminated steroid injections manufactured by the New England Compounding Center (NECC).

Approximately 17,700 single-dose vials of the steroid were distributed to 76 clinics in 23 states. NECC has initiated a recall of the steroid vials, as well as all other products that were manufactured and distributed from their Framingham, Massachusetts facility. Roughly 14,000 people were exposed to the contaminated steroid prior to the recall.

The Virginia pharmaceutical injury lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman PC are currently investigating cases for damages sustained after taking the contaminated steroid injection. If you or a loved one has developed meningitis after receiving one of these injections, our attorneys can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Please call (855) 880-8163 today to schedule a consultation at one of our Virginia offices.

Virginia Facilities That Received the Contaminated NECC Steroid Vials

Two clinics in Virginia received potentially contaminated steroid vials from NECC:

• Insight Imaging in Roanoke, VA
• New River Valley Surgical Center in Christiansburg, VA

The majority of these steroid injections have been administered on the back to control pain. However, some were also administered in locations such as the knees and shoulders. It is unclear how many meningitis cases were caused by back injections compared with injections to other parts of the body.

If you have received a steroid injection in the last few months from one of the Virginia clinics involved in the recall, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately to make sure you are properly monitored. The incubation period is between 1-4 weeks, so it is possible that more meningitis cases will develop in the coming days and weeks.

Symptoms of Fungal Meningitis

Meningitis is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by an inflammation of the lining of your brain and spinal cord. This particular outbreak involves a rare form of fungal meningitis that is not contagious.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Severe headaches
• Photophobia (eye discomfort in bright light)
• Neck stiffness
• Dizziness
• Light sensitivity
• Seizures
• Nausea
• Vomiting

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following a steroid injection from one of the clinics listed above, contact your doctor immediately. Fungal meningitis is treated using anti-fungal agents instead of traditional antibiotics. Make sure you let your doctor know the source of your meningitis was fungal so that you receive the proper treatment.

Please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC today by completing our online form or calling (855) 880-8163 to speak to a Virginia pharmaceutical injury lawyer. We serve clients in Norfolk, Newport News, and Roanoke, Virginia.