Steroid Shots Linked to Multistate Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

If you suffer from back pain and have received a steroid shot as treatment, you might be surprised to hear that you may have been exposed to fungal meningitis. In the fall of 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began tracking a multistate outbreak of fungal meningitis linked to contaminated steroid shots. As of October 17th, the CDC has identified 247 cases. A number of cases have surfaced in states surrounding New York – including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New Hampshire – but it could only be a matter of time before cases appear in New York as well. Speak with a New York personal injury lawyer to see if fungal meningitis cases have reached your area.

What Could Happen If You Had a Contaminated Steroid Shot?

Generally a straightforward treatment, a steroid shot is an injection to the spinal area. Patients often receive the treatment in the hope of reducing back pain. The steroid treatment associated with the outbreak of fungal meningitis is preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate (80mg/ml). The CDC has identified the manufacturer of the potentially contaminated product as the New England Compounding Center (NECC). The NECC participated in a recall of some of its products in October 2012. A New York personal injury lawyer can explain the types of lawsuits commonly resulting from recalled, contaminated products.

According to the CDC, fungal meningitis is not contagious. However, the infection can cause discomfort and inconvenience the patient. You may also have lost wages or taken time off from work due to illness. Your New York personal injury lawyer can help you get compensation for these losses. Even if you don’t feel sick now, you should still pay attention to your health. The CDC recommends closely watching for symptoms up to several months after you have potentially received a contaminated shot.

Contact an Attorney if You’re Worried About Fungal Meningitis Exposure

If you’re worried that you or a loved one may have received a contaminated steroid shot, if you’ve recently received a treatment manufactured by the NECC, or if you’ve already gotten a diagnosis of fungal meningitis from your doctor, call Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., at 800-529-9997 or contact us through our website. Find out if you have legal options. You should also contact a physician right away if you have physical symptoms or concerns about your health.