Former “Beverly Hills, 90210” actress Denise Dowse is in a non-medically induced coma brought on by a severe case of meningitis.
Denise’s sister, Tracey Dowse, posted an emotional update to social media Aug. 6, requesting her Instagram followers and all who love Denise keep her in their prayers. “I am trying to keep my spirits up and support those who need it. I am requesting support and prayers be offered me and my sister @denisedowse,” Tracey said, before informing fans that doctors have no idea when she will wake up from the coma.
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“As many of you know I am a private person. So this is hard for me.” Tracey wrote on Instagram. She went on to describe that the “Beverly Hills 90210” actress is currently fighting for her life. Tracey touched on her sister’s “virulent form of meningitis” but didn’t offer any insight as to when she contracted meningitis, or the details surrounding her seemingly steep decline.
“She is a vibrant actor and director that should have many years ahead of her,” Tracey wrote in the post.
During an interview with the media Tuesday, Tracey reiterated that she welcomes prayers for her sister’s healing. “We are hopeful that she will come out of this soon,” she told Page Six. (RELATED: West Virginia Woman Wakes Up From 2-Year Coma, Accuses Brother Of Being Attacker)
Beverly Hills, 90210 Actress Denise Dowse in Coma https://t.co/fT4QyCLuNf
— E! News (@enews) August 10, 2022
The Mayo Clinic describes meningitis as “an inflammation of the fluid and membranes (meninges) surrounding your brain and spinal cord,” stating that most U.S. cases are caused by a viral infection. Bacterial and fungal infections may also cause the illness.
In the most severe cases of meningitis, patients may experience enough brain damage to induce a coma, according to Medical News Today. The medical publication describes this as a very rare occurrence with bacterial or viral meningitis.
Denise is known for her roles in “Insecure,” “The Guardian” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.”