CDC reports 135 cases have been reported including 12 deaths. There have been nine reported cases in Maryland including one death.
The meningitis outbreak remains a national and local concern according to Dr. David Blythe with the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
DHMH now says nine meningitis cases have been identified in Maryland from the use of a tainted steriod. One of those patients has died.
Nationally, the CDC is reporting more than 135 case, including 12 deaths in 10 states.
He said residents developed the fungal type of this disease after receiving an injectable steroid., usually used to treat pain. Unlike other kinds of meningitis, this specific kind cannot be contracted from person to person.
"What it appears to be, is there is this contaminated product that is injected into peoples' cerebral spinal fluid, potentially other locations, but then causes infection," Dr. Blythe said.
Seven different Maryland facilities, all within an hour of Frederick, received and pulled from the affect product. Symptoms include fever, headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, nausea or vomiting.
Dr. Blythe said anyone who develops signs of an infection following an injection should check with their healthcare provider.
