An 11-year-old New Jersey boy who died last week at a Pennsylvania summer camp tested positive for bacteria that can cause meningitis and sepsis, reports nj.com.
Daniel Beer died July 10 at Camp Nah-Jee-Wah in Milford, Pa. The boy displayed symptoms of severe stomach pain and nausea on July 9 and was treated at the camp's infirmary. The next morning, Beer was taken to Port Jervis, N.Y.-based Bon Secours Hospital, where his symptoms significantly worsened.
The camp confirmed Beer had Neisseria meningitides — also known as meningococcus — in an email to parents July 13. The bacteria can lead to rare, but potentially life-threatening infections of the brain, spinal cord and blood stream, according to the CDC. The bacteria are most commonly transferred through saliva, although it is not as contagious as germs that cause the common cold or flu.
Three other boys in Beer's cabin were taken to the hospital after displaying symptoms of stomach illness the same day Beer died. The boys were released later that day, and officials say there is no connection between their illnesses and Beer's death.
The camp is taking thorough precautions to prevent other potential infections. Staff members and campers who had direct contact with Beer will receive a prophylaxis treatment to prevent infection, which will be overseen by an infection control specialist, the camp said in the email.
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