On Tuesday, Milledgeville Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan designated August as Stevens-Johnson syndrome Awareness month.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare disorder of the skin and mucous membranes that occurs through a reaction to medication. The syndrome can have varied reactions with flu-like symptoms being most common followed by a painful rash that spreads and blisters. It involves more than 30 percent of the skin surface and extensive damage to the mucous membranes.
“This proclamation highlights the plight of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and brings awareness to the public by designating August as Stevens-Johnson syndrome Awareness month,” said Parham-Copelan.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and its more extreme form known as toxic epidermal necrolysis were both recognized in the proclamation as extremely painful and even fatal disorders that affect the skin. Any prescription or over-the-counter medicine can cause reactions, so the council finds it imperative to spread awareness.
“It is proper and fitting to bring awareness to this medical condition known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis and to the arduous journey of recovery it opposes on those unfortunate enough to be stricken by this malicious disorder,” read City Clerk Bo Danuser from the proclamation.
The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of Jacquelynn Nelson for reappointment as the City of Milledgeville representative on the Baldwin County Board of Health.