The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed a case of invasive meningococcal disease in the Maldives and has begun contact tracing to identify those at risk.
In a statement, the HPA said it is currently tracing close contacts of the patient and will provide prophylactic medication to high-risk individuals after contact tracing is complete. Additional precautionary measures are also being implemented.
Invasive meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to complications such as meningitis (brain inflammation) and sepsis (blood infection). According to the HPA, most cases reported in the Maldives are typically linked to travel abroad.
Symptoms include fever, red rashes, and headaches, with onset typically occurring between one and ten days after exposure. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, making those in close and prolonged contact with infected individuals more susceptible.
The HPA advises the public to stay alert for symptoms and seek immediate medical care if needed.
In a statement, the HPA said it is currently tracing close contacts of the patient and will provide prophylactic medication to high-risk individuals after contact tracing is complete. Additional precautionary measures are also being implemented.
Invasive meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to complications such as meningitis (brain inflammation) and sepsis (blood infection). According to the HPA, most cases reported in the Maldives are typically linked to travel abroad.
Symptoms include fever, red rashes, and headaches, with onset typically occurring between one and ten days after exposure. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, making those in close and prolonged contact with infected individuals more susceptible.
The HPA advises the public to stay alert for symptoms and seek immediate medical care if needed.
