Auburn Recreation District officials warned parents that a day camper was diagnosed with viral meningitis Wednesday.

The 6-year-old boy was in the youth Discovery Club and Day Camp at Recreation Park Monday and his mother called ARD staff Wednesday morning to alert them of his medical condition, according to Kahl Muscott, Auburn Recreation District administrator.

Muscott said staff immediately posted an advisory at the site and passed out informational fliers to parents. The fliers informed them of the child’s diagnosis and symptoms to watch for.

Muscott added that it is normal procedure to disinfect rooms and toys at the end of every day. He said staff was taking extra measures Wednesday evening.

The boy did not swim on Monday. Muscott said campers were playing in the park that day and groups were intermixed.

According to KidsHealth.org, viral meningitis is “relatively” common but less serious than bacterial meningitis. When diagnosed quickly, it can be easily treated, according to information on the site. Most cases of viral meningitis resolve within seven to 10 days without treatment or complications, according to KidsHealth.org.

Symptoms are similar to those of the flu and common cold and include fever, lethargy, irritability, headache, eye sensitivity to light, stiff neck, skin rashes and seizures.

Muscott said more information will be posted on the recreation district’s Web site, auburnrec.com, Thursday. He added that staff will be addressing the issue Thursday morning with parents as they drop off their children.

~ Jenifer Gee