Viral Meningitis confirmed in Shelby County

The Shelby County Department of Public Health Friday confirmed two cases of viral meningitis found in children living in the county. Shelby County Public Health Nurse Calla Poldburg says the Iowa Department of Public Health does not consider this to be an outbreak. This is an intestinal type of virus and is spread by poor personal hygiene. She says simple precautions, such as washing the hands after using the restrooms can aid in the spread of the virus.Parents need to be encouraged to wash hands after changing diapers and before preparing foods. Symptoms of the illness are often times confused with that of the flu. There are a large number of viruses associated with this type of meningitis. Poldberg says parents should not be concerned about their children playing in public swimming pools, getting the illness. If a parent suspects their child has contracted some form of the illness, they should feel free to call or see their physician.