Meningococcal disease symptoms and treatment

The Department of Health already confirmed yesterday that there is no meningococcal disease outbreak in the country, especially in Batangas and its nearby provinces Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Quezon.

DOH-Regional Director Eduardo Janairo also added meningococcemia in Batangas, where a woman from UAE died was an isolated case.

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However, more patients who were suspected of having meningo were being transferred to San Lazaro hospital in Manila. This causes meningococcemia scare among the public.

Meningococcal disease quick facts

Though there was no outbreak yet, the public was advised to be alert and careful of the fatal bacteria. Here we give you facts about meningococcemia that will help you identify the contagious disease.

What are the first signs of meningococcal?

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  • A reddish or purple skin rash
  • General poor feeling
  • Severe, persistent headache
  • Sudden high fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Discomfort in bright lights
  • Neck stiffness
  • Joint pain
  • Confusion or other mental changes
  • Drowsiness or difficulty awakening

How do you get the meningococcal disease?

WHO said, “the bacteria are transmitted from person-to-person through droplets of respiratory or throat secretions from carriers. Smoking, close and prolonged contact – such as kissing, sneezing or coughing on someone, or living in close quarters with a carrier – facilitates the spread of the disease.”

In fatal cases, meningitis can kill within 4 hours, especially with babies and toddlers.

How to treat meningococcemia?

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The most crucial treatment for meningococcemia is early intravenous antibiotic therapy.

Also read: DOH says no meningococcemia outbreak