Earlier this month, a five-month-old Valier infant died from Pneumococcal Meningitis, caused by a strep pneumonia. As in all meningitis cases, the Pondera County Health Department was notified.

"Our primary concern is that it would not spread to others in the community. That was not the case in this instant. The type was not contagious," said Pondera County Health Department Nurse Cynthia Grubb.

This particular type of meningitis is rarely contagious. Each year About 100 infant deaths occur nationwide from this form of meningitis. It can usually be prevented by vaccination.

"I recommend prevnar vaccine to all infants. It is something that is 90% effective."

Pondera County Health Department officials hope this meningitis tragedy will remind parents about the importance of vaccination.

"Whenever something bad happens in a community like this it brings people together. Maybe it is a reminder to take action so it doesn't happen again," said Robin Richardson of Conrad.

Pondera County Health Department Nurse, Cynthia Grubb does not expect another case like this in the region. But she encourages all parents to keep up with vaccinations. She says the other at-risk group needing vaccination group is college students who live in a dormitory setting.