On Monday, March 11, 2024, the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office, and Norfolk City Jail medical staff were contacted by the Norfolk Health Department and informed that an inmate at the Norfolk City Jail tested positive for bacterial meningitis on Friday, March 8, 2024, at a local hospital. The inmate never returned to the jail after the positive test result.

The inmate was booked in the Norfolk City Jail on Friday, March 1, 2024, and was placed in a cell block with other inmates. Following the notification from the Health Department and due to potential exposure concerns, the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office and Norfolk City Jail medical staff took immediate action supplying all staff members and inmates who may have had contact with the individual a dose of an antibiotic and initiated quarantine protocols, as suggested by the Virginia Department of Health. Inmates and staff members were advised to notify medical staff if they develop any symptoms of the disease.

According to a recent media release from the Virginia Department of Health, “the bacteria is spread from person to person by respiratory and throat secretions” and is “not spread by casual contact.” The release further states, “symptoms of the disease include sudden fevers, headache, stiff neck, altered mental status, and light sensitivity. Additionally, symptoms of chills, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur. In later states, a dark purple, brown, or black rash may appear.”

The Virginia Department of Health is supporting and assisting the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office in our  efforts and conducting any necessary follow-ups, including contact tracing.

Currently, there are no confirmed cases of bacterial meningitis in the Norfolk City Jail and all quarantines have been lifted.

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The Norfolk Sheriff's Office is a values driven organization
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