LANSING (WKZO-AM) — The Michigan Department of Public Health is warning women to follow the instructions on tampon packages after an increase in toxic shock syndrome cases in west Michigan.
Spokesperson Jennifer Eisner said they typically have four cases of the potentially-deadly syndrome all year in Michigan. So far, just three months into 2016, they have already recorded 5 cases in Kent and Ottawa counties.
“Four of the five cases were using the Playtex Sport brand, and one case was using U by Kotex,” Eisner said.
She said the symptoms are fever, diarrhea, vomiting and muscle aches. Anyone who experiences those symptoms should not hesitate to seek medical assistance, Eisner said.
“The onset of TSS happens very quickly,” Eisner said. “It’s important that it’s identified as soon as possible.”
Eisner said the best way to prevent TSS is to avoid leaving tampons in for more than six hours.
– John McNeill
