Ailing person is from Othello area

ADAMS COUNTY - The Adams County Health Department reported a possible case of meningitis Tuesday.

Administrator Kate Brueske said the health department is awaiting lab results confirming a resident of Adams County has meningitis. The individual is presumed to test positive.

Brueske said she was unsure of the individual's city of residency.

"I do know that it's in the Othello area," Brueske said.

The health department is working to identify close contacts of the infected individual and advise them of their need for preventative measures, according to Health Officer Timothy Moody.

"In general, people who are exposed to meningitis are not considered a risk to others," the department stated.

Early symptoms of meningitis include:

• Sudden fever

• Strong headache

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stiff neck

• Pinpoint red rash

Sensitivity to light, an "altered mental state," delirium and a coma are other symptoms that may appear, the health department advised.

"Meningococcal disease is a serious illness," the department advised. "It is important to continue to be alert to signs of illness and contact your health care provider if symptoms develop."

Moody stated those with questions and those who were not contacted by the health department and believe they may be a close contact should call the Adams County Health Department in Othello at 509-488-2031, or in Ritzville at 509-659-3315.