THE US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned about a potential outbreak of fungal meningitis among more than 200 U.S. patients who underwent surgical procedures in clinics in Matamoros, Mexico.
The affected city is situated across the border from Brownsville, Texas.
The US-CDC, in collaboration with the Mexican Ministry of Health and local and state officials, said it is actively responding to the outbreak.
The investigation has already identified 2 clinics, namely River Side Surgical Center and Clinica K-3, as the primary sources of the infections.
Both clinics were promptly closed earlier this month in response to the outbreak.
Authorities are still determining whether other clinics in the region are linked to this outbreak.
The same organism responsible for the infections remains unknown, and investigations are underway to identify the specific cause.
The Mexican officials have shared a list of more than 200 U.S. patients with the CDC, who may be at risk based on their surgical records.
The US-CDC is urging these individuals, even if they are currently asymptomatic, to seek urgent medical care if they have had epidural anesthesia at either of the identified clinics since January.
Symptoms of fungal meningitis include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and confusion.
Prompt medical attention is crucial in order to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The CDC said it is actively collaborating with Mexican authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
They are closely monitoring the situation and conducting thorough investigations to gather more information about the cause and spread of the fungal meningitis cases.
Individuals who have undergone surgical procedures involving epidural anesthesia in Matamoros, Mexico, are advised to remain vigilant and promptly seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms associated with meningitis.
The CDC continues to emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment in mitigating the impact of this outbreak.
Further updates and guidance regarding the situation will be provided as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigations.
