Meningitis cases climb to 47 infected in seven states - CBS News

Meningitis cases climb to 47 infected in seven states - CBS News:

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Tennessee was the first state to have a reported case of fungal meningitis, on Sept. 21, the CDC said. A patient had developed infections after receiving methylprednisolone acetate steroid injections for back pain. At least 17 of the Tennessee cases were treated at the Saint Thomas Outpatient Neurosurgery Center in Nashville. The center had 2,000 vials from the suspect lots -- the largest number -- and voluntarily closed its doors last month in light of the investigation.

On Sept. 28, the CDC was notified of cases outside of Tennessee. 

Fungal meningitis is a non-contagious form of the disease, as opposed to bacterial and viral types. It is often caused by fungus, typically found in leaf mold. Authorities said some people were experiencing mild stroke-like symptoms, including slurred speech, and difficulty walking and urinating. Other fungal meningitis symptoms include worsening and severe headache, nausea, dizziness and fever.

It can be treated with high-dose antifungal medications, usually given intravenously in a hospital. The earlier the disease is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of survival are, health officials said.