Fungal Meningitis

Fungal meningitis is caused by a fungus which is spread through the blood and to the spinal cord. Those with compromised immune systems due to HIV, cancer, diabetes, certain medications, or surgical procedures are more susceptible to serious infections such as meningitis. An infected patient cannot transmit fungal meningitis to another person. Symptoms include:

• fever
• headache
• stiff neck
• nausea and vomiting
• sensitivity to light

 A recent outbreak of fungal meningitis has been reported in numerous states by patients who have received contaminated steroid injections.  The CDC and FDA are currently investigating all products produced by the Massachusetts compounding pharmacy responsible for distributing the contaminated medications. 

Compounding pharmaceuticals are necessary for many patients due to certain medical needs.  These include: low dose medications, method of administration, combinations of medication that are not commercially available, and providing drugs that are currently in small supply due to national shortages.     

To learn more about fungal meningitis and the recent outbreak, please visit: http://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/fungal.htmlhttp://www.pharmacist.com/fungal-contamination-triggers-meningitis-outbreak