Officials with the CDC and FDA have now confirmed that one lot of the three potentially contaminated lots of preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate that was recalled on September 26, 2012 did contain the fungus Exserohilum rostratum, the same fungus that was present in the majority of the patients who have tested positive for fungal meningitis. Testing on the other two lots of the injectable steroid, along with other NECC injectable drugs continues.
The fungal meningitis outbreak continues to grow as more than 285 people have been sickened and 23 are now dead. In Indiana, the number of Hoosiers who have been sickened has increased to 38 with 2 fatalities. The contaminated vials of preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate were recalled from six Indiana facilities: Ambulatory Care Center, LLC—Evansville, Fort Wayne Physical Medicine–Fort Wayne,OSMC Outpatient Surgery Center—Elkhart, South Bend Clinic–South Bend, Union Hospital–Terre Haute, & Wellspring—Columbus.
The CDC along with local and state health officials urge any patient who received an epidural steroid injection and may be experiencing symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, severe headache, vomiting, and light sensitivity to seek immediate medical attention.
If you or someone you care about received an epidural steroid injection and has contracted fungal meningitis or a serious injury, contact us. Our personal injury product liability attorneys have experience handling cases involving dangerous drugs and defective medical devices. It is important for you to understand your legal rights and options and get compensation for your injuries. The initial consultation is free of charge and no legal fees will be collected unless your claim is paid.