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Back-to-school also means an increase in cases of meningitis. Dr. Erin Fries of Mercy Medical Associates – Springdale Family Medicine is giving a free lecture on Meningitis to inform parents about the dangers of this potentially life-threatening illness.

Meningitis, a bacterial inflammation or infection of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, is contagious and is easily spread among those living in close quarters or contact with one another. Meningitis, if left untreated can cause serious health effects such as brain damage, hearing loss, and learning disabilities. “The most cases of meningitis are found in schools or dorms because of people being in such close contact with one another,” said Erin Fries, MD of Mercy Medical Associates—Springdale Family Medicine. “Prevention is key—there are vaccines that can protect students and young people from meningitis.”  

Dr. Fries lecture will be held on Wednesday, September 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Mercy HealthPlex Fairfield, 3050 Mack Road, Fairfield. Dr. Fries will be available after the lecture for questions. The lecture is FREE, but seating is limited. Register by calling 513-771-7213.

Dr. Fries is a graduate of Lakota High School. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology, Magna Cum Laude and with Honors, from the University of Dayton and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. She completed a residency in family practice from Grant Medical Center in Columbus and is Board Certified in Family Medicine. Dr. Fries is currently accepting new patients. Mercy Medical Associates-Springdale Family Medicine provides general medical care and treatment for the entire family, from infants to seniors. They specialize in a variety of areas of family medicine including internal medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, sports medicine, minor surgery and geriatrics.