The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced the commencement of contact tracing and treatment after confirming a case of Invasive Meningococcal Disease in the Maldives. The HPA has taken swift action to identify and provide prophylactic treatment to those who have been in contact with the infected individual.
Meningococcal disease, a communicable illness transmitted through the respiratory system, can manifest symptoms within one to ten days of infection. These symptoms include headache, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, drowsiness and confusion, rashes, sensitivity to bright lights, seizures, fatigue, and breathing difficulties.
HPA emphasised the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease. The meningitis vaccine requires about two weeks to build immunity, making it crucial for individuals, especially pilgrims, to get vaccinated well in advance. The agency advised anyone showing symptoms less than 14 days after vaccination or who has not been vaccinated to seek immediate medical attention.
Possible contacts include those living in the same household as the infected individual, those who traveled on the same aircraft or spent extended periods with the patient, and those exposed to the patient's respiratory fluids. However, brief contacts and individuals who met the patient's direct contacts are not considered close contacts.