The FBI has set a Nov. 30 deadline for victims of the nationwide fungal meningitis outbreak to submit their information for the ongoing criminal investigation into New England Compounding Center.
The former Massachusetts compounding pharmacy distributed tainted steroids across the country believed to have caused the meningitis outbreak that has caused 264 cases of illness, including 19 deaths in Michigan. Eight of those who died were Livingston County residents.
The FBI’s Office of Victim Assistance is seeking information from those who received an injection of preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate at a dosage of 80 milligrams from May 1 to Oct. 1, 2012.
The bureau wants:
■ Name, address, telephone number and e-mail.
■ Brief summary of medical history.
■ Any additional information that may be helpful.
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with state and local health departments and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, continues to investigate the outbreak tied to NECC.
The FBI is legally required to identify victims of federal crimes under investigation and provide them with information, assistance services and resources.
“The FBI is concerned about the devastating impact the outbreak has had on victims and their families. Providing information and assistance to victims is an important part of our work,” the bureau states on its website.
Separately, victims of the outbreak tied to NECC products have until a Jan. 15 deadline to submit claims against NECC in the Massachusetts company’s bankruptcy case.
Those who have suffered physical injuries, distress, personal losses or treatment costs related to the outbreak linked to NECC’s products are encouraged to file claims in the bankruptcy case.
Filing a claim does not guarantee compensation, however.
Meanwhile, a Michigan grand jury is meeting to determine whether NECC violated Michigan law by distributing unsafe medications in the state.
The tainted steroids were distributed to clinics in Livingston, Genesee, Macomb and Grand Traverse counties.
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