"Deadly Fungal Meningitis Outbreak Linked to Mexico Surgery Clinics Claims Seven Lives"
The death toll in the fungal meningitis outbreak linked to tainted surgeries in Mexico has risen to seven, with 34 cases reported in the US. Health officials are investigating 161 others who may have been exposed. The outbreak is believed to be caused by contaminated epidural anesthesia used in cosmetic surgeries. The specific drug responsible for the contamination is difficult to track down due to poor hygiene practices and the use of personal medications by anesthesiologists in Mexico. Fungal meningitis is challenging to test for and treat, and symptoms can appear weeks to months after exposure. The CDC is urging anyone who had procedures at the affected clinics to seek medical care immediately, even without symptoms.