Tainted Epidural Shots
A Massachusetts pharmacy called the New England Compounding Center (NECC) also known as the New England Compound Pharmacy Inc has recalled their epidural steroid shots because they are tainted with fungal meningitis.
Over 13,000 people have received these tainted shots
These tainted epidural steroid shots have been sent to clinics in over 23 states. Over 13,000 people have received these tainted shots.
The DiCello Law Firm has already begun researching and working on these cases. They have the experience and the knowledge that is required to take on a pharmaceutical corporation.
Patients Have Died From These Tainted Epidural Steroid Shots
So far, hundreds of people who got these tainted epidural steroid shots have come down with fungal infections of the fluid surrounding their spinal cords and brains. Some of the people who contracted fungal meningitis have died. The case count rises daily, as symptoms of fungal infection can take up to a month to appear, and there's often a delay in case reporting.
The infection rate is still to be determined. All of the fungal infections to date have been in patients who received spinal injections.
CDC Issues Warnings to Patients
The CDC is warning such patients to be on the lookout for symptoms of fungal infection:
- Swelling
- Increasing pain
- Redness
- Warmth at the injection site
See a Doctor If You Have Symptoms of Fungal Meningitis or Fungal Joint Infection
Patients who have such symptoms should see a doctor for further tests. The best way to test for fungal infection is to get a sample from the source. For most people that will require their doctor collecting spinal joint fluid.
If you suspect you may have received a dose of contaminated medicine, contact the health provider who gave it to you.
Clinics Must Look Out For Symptoms of Meningitis
Clinics that gave the tainted epidural steroid shots are contacting all patients to warn them to look out for symptoms. If you have received a notice from your clinic and want to make sure to protect your legal rights, call The DiCello Law Firm. We can help!
For patients who got spinal injections, early symptoms may be very mild. At first, most patients only feel a little worse than usual. For example, patients with back pain may feel slightly worse pain, or slightly more weakness.
Fungal Meningitis Symptoms
The CDC warns patients who have had a spinal steroid shot since May 21, 2012, to call a doctor immediately if they have any of these symptoms:
- New or worsening headache
- Fever
- Sensitivity to light
- Stiff Neck
- New weakness or numbness in any part of your body
- slurred speech
- Increased pain, redness, or swelling at your injection site
Complicated Treatment for Fungal Meningitis
Treatment of fungal meningitis is complicated. Antifungal drugs must be given intravenously, every day. At least at first, patients should be treated in a hospital.
Treatment often lasts for several months, and can have serious side effects.
If you or a loved one has received one of the tainted epidural steroid shots and has contracted fungal meningitis or fungal joint infection, call the lawyers at The DiCello Law Firm or fill out the form on this page to discuss your legal rights. There is a possiblity that you could be entitled to compensation.