The number of Michiganders affected by the national meningitis outbreak continues to rise.
The Centers for Disease Control now lists 82 patients in Michigan infected by tainted steroid injections intended to relieve back pain. Six people from Michigan have died.
Angela Minicuci is with the Michigan Department of Community Health. She expects the number will continue to rise, as some patients are still waiting to see symptoms develop.
“That’s why we’re continuing to see new cases each day,” says Minicuci, “Because while someone may not have meningitis at this time…being that they were exposed we do ask they do continue to watch for those symptoms.”
Most of the Michigan patients have tested positive for fungal meningitis, but about a quarter have developed other medical problems from the tainted steroid injections.
Michigan has more cases linked to the meningitis outbreak than any other state.
