The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has begun contact tracing efforts following the detection of a case of invasive meningococcal disease, a dangerous contagious illness, in the Maldives. The HPA announced the discovery of this case a short while ago. However, they have not disclosed whether the infected person is a resident of the Maldives or a visitor from abroad. The HPA stated that they are gathering relevant information, conducting contact tracing, and providing prophylactic medication to high-risk contacts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Additionally, the HPA mentioned that they are working on implementing other necessary precautionary measures. Meningitis is a dangerous disease that causes inflammation of the layers surrounding the brain. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite. Common symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. It can also affect brain function to varying degrees, with some people experiencing fatigue, while severe cases may lead to seizures, coma, or death.
In children, symptoms may be fewer and harder to identify. Possible signs in children include high fever, excessive crying, refusal to eat or drink, vomiting, changes in sleep patterns, and seizures. The disease can sometimes spread to the brain and bloodstream. If caused by meningococcus bacteria, it may also cause a rash. Meningococcal meningitis has a high potential for community spread, so close contacts also need preventive medication. The disease spreads through saliva.
