Mayor recovering well

Medical tests have concluded that viral meningitis was the cause of the illness that struck Thames-Coromandel District Mayor Philippa Barriball last week.

The 38-year-old fell acutely ill and was rushed to hospital with what doctors initially thought was a minor stroke.

However subsequent tests, including one failed procedure that led to a dash to Waikato Hospital by ambulance, have concluded viral meningitis as the cause.

Doctors initially thought a minor stroke had occurred after a CT scan showed scarring on the occipital, or back, of the brain. However this has since been ruled out as the cause of the illness.

“Mayor Philippa is making good progress towards recovery,” said Thames-Coromandel District Council Chief Executive Steve Ruru. “She has been told she will need a prolonged period of rest and with this she will make a full recovery.”

He said if anyone wished to send a card or message of support, the council will accept these at any of its offices and pass these on to the mayor.