Health officials are monitoring the spread of a viral meningitis outbreak and have reported that another person has been tested.

Chief Medical Officer John Cann yesterday confirmed a spinal tap was given to one more person, bringing the total number of people tested to 36.

He said testing was being done to distinguish whether the nature of the illnesses were bacterial or viral. A viral outbreak is suspected.

A white blood cell count and a count of the sugar content of the spinal fluid will allow for better treatment by pinpointing the cause of the infection.

Dr. Cann said news of the outbreak was being released in order to warn people that children with its symptoms should be taken to the hospital.

He added that his department did not want to "unduly alarm'' people, but "make them aware of the proper steps and precautions'' for viral meningitis.

When asked if the disease could be fatal, Dr. Cann was careful to point out he was speaking about extreme cases.

He added: "In some instances, yes, but that's if you don't get the appropriate care. There are atypical cases.

"It can cause some severe symptoms for some people but it is very treatable,'' he added.

Dr. Cann continued: "For viral infections, the treatment is all supportive care. Our concern is that people are at least aware of what to do, which is come to the hospital.'' Meningitis is an inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms include a high fever, stiff neck, lethargy, irritableness and, in some cases, vomiting.

The symptoms tend to appear three to seven days after exposure.

Good hygiene, like regular washing of hands, particularly when preparing or eating food, can prevent transmission of the virus.

Viral meningitis is not passed through casual contact, but through prolonged exposure.