video transcript

Health officials in Massachusetts and across the US are continuing their investigation into what caused an outbreak of fungal meningitis that has killed 12 people so far. The investigation comes after a company shipped thousands of vials of tainted steroid drugs--usually given to patients for neck and back pain-- to 23 states nationwide. Up to 13,000 people might have received the tainted injections. Officials offered their condolences to the victims families. (SOUNDBITE) (English) MASSACHUSETTS BUREAU OF HEALTHCARE SAFETY DIRECTOR, DR. MADELEINE BIONDOLILLO, SAYING: "On behalf of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, I want to express my deepest sympathy for each person and their loved ones impacted by this tragedy. Please be assured that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and our partnering agencies are taking this situation very seriously, and will continue our swift action to ensure that the public is safe, until this situation is brought to an appropriate close." Fungal meningitis is not contagious. Symptoms include headache, fever and nausea.