Gretchen Everhart School, a special-needs school in Tallahassee, was the site of a suspected case of viral meningitis reported to parents Tuesday.
This case caused a stir among those around the surrounding areas.
The school, located at 2750 Mission Road, received a thorough cleaning of every doorknob, desk, computer and air coil.
In a statement released Wednesday, Chris Petley, spokesperson for Leon County schools said, “We gave the school a proper wipe-down, and it is prepared and safe for students to come back to school Thursday.”
Although the condition and cases are rare, there is verifiable cause for concern.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord and it can be caused by viruses or bacteria, according to the Leon County Health Department.
The LCHD also says that bacterial meningitis is a severe illness, which can result in brain damage, learning disability, hearing loss or death.
According to the LCHD, they do not keep records of viral meningitis because it is the least severe form of the illness, and patients do not require treatment, as the average recovering process is complete in seven to 10 days.
Marjorie Kirsch, Leon County Health Department medical director said, “It can be contagious, but it is unlikely another person associated with this case will develop viral meningitis.”
Principal Jane Floyd Bullen sent mass e-mail messages to all parents listing the symptoms of the illness such as drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, fever, vomiting and nausea.
Parents whose children show such symptoms are urged to contact their health-care providers.
County schools re-opened Thursday after observing Veterans Day on Wednesday.