CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Department of Health (DOH)-Central Luzon has warned the public against meningococcemia, an acute and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection of the bloodstream caused by Neisseria meningitidis.
In Central Luzon, there are 16 suspected meningococcemia cases reported with nine deaths from January to November 11 this year.
Accoring to DOH-Central Luzon Director Cesar Cassion, meningococcemia can be spread through person-to-person contact.
“The bacteria can spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, kissing or sharing foods, drinks and utensils with an infected person,” Cassion said.
Signs and symptoms of the disease include fever, cough, sore throat, other respiratory symptoms, pinpoint rashes and severe skin lesions. In severe cases, the disease may even result to death.
He assured the public, however, that the DOH-3 is strengthening its surveillance system and augmentation of prophylaxis to tertiary hospitals that cater to suspected meningococcemia cases.
Meanwhile, DOH-Central Luzon Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit Head Jessie Fantone said they are having difficulty in terms of prevention and control of the disease since it is sporadic in nature and everyone can be a carrier of the infection.
“Unlike other diseases which have prolonged exposure, its clinical course usually lasts only for a few hours or few days,” Fantone said, adding that despite its characteristics, meningococcemia is preventable.
“Since this can be transmitted through respiratory droplet, we need to avoid crowded places, close contact with infected patients and sharing of utensils or anything that has been in the mouth of an infected person,” Fantone said.
He added that cleanliness of the environment, as well as proper handwashing and coughing etiquette are small steps to prevent the spread of this communicable disease.
“Proper nutrition to boost one’s immune system, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol are also steps to prevent meningococcemia,” Fantone said.