Fungal Meningitis

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News Updates
September 12, 2023

DSHS is closing the investigation into cases of fungal meningitis linked to surgery done in Matamoros, Mexico earlier this year. The most recent Texas case associated with this outbreak developed symptoms in May and it was reported to public health in late July. Public health follow up will continue for hospitalized patients.

The 23 Texas patients in this outbreak had procedures between January and May 2023. The patients were between the ages of 23 and 52 years old, and most were female. Eleven Texas patients who were part of the outbreak have died as a result of their illnesses.

Fungal meningitis can be life-threatening, and finding infections early is important for treatment. More information on fungal meningitis is available on the CDC’s Healthcare-Associated Fungal Meningitis page.

Outbreak of fungal meningitis among Texas Residents

Persons under investigation
(People who got surgery in Matamoros in 2023 but have no known symptoms)
122
Suspected cases
(Symptoms consistent with meningitis; test results pending or unknown)
3
Probable cases
(Test results suggest meningitis; fungus not isolated)
12
Confirmed cases
(Fungus detected in samples)
8

More information about the case definitions above is available on the CDC’s outbreak page.

Additional resources:

DSHS health alert
DSHS news release
CDC travel advisory
CDC clinical guidance