EODY: Exacerbation of meningitis cases in Patras – What does the Organization recommend – 2024-03-06 18:20:17

In the year 2023 the incidence of meningococcal disease increased, reaching pre-pandemic levels and within the year 2024 a total of 12 cases from all over the country have been reported to EODY.

In particular, according to the EODY, three of the above cases concern students of university institutions in the city of Patras and were reported to the EODY during the time period 11/1/2024 to today. According to international guidelines, the detection of 3 cases of meningococcal disease of the same serogroup in an Organization (school, university institution, etc.) during a period of three months, constitutes an outbreak of cases and it is recommended to extend the administration of chemoprophylaxis to a wider cycle from close contacts and targeted vaccination of close contacts of cases.

Echelon of EODY in Patras

Since the appearance of the first case, EODY has been in close cooperation with the 6th Health Region, the Directorate of Public Health of the Region of Western Greece and the competent authorities of the university institutions. He sent instructions regarding the investigation of contacts of the cases and the immediate administration of chemoprophylaxis.

In addition, following relevant information and instructions from the Deputy Minister of Health, Irini Agapidakis, tomorrow morning she will carry out an on-site intervention with the transition of echelon and the participation of the Mobile Health Teams (MOHY) of the EODY in Patra. The team will inform the students studying in the departments where the cases appeared and will administer chemoprophylaxis to the close and wider contacts of the cases, while targeted vaccination of close contacts is recommended, according to the opinion of the National Immunization Committee (NEC).

EODY particularly emphasizes the great importance of early detection and treatment of cases of meningococcal disease. Citizens and especially young people who have clinical symptoms compatible with the disease (fever and rash) should immediately contact a doctor. Physicians who suspect meningitis must immediately administer treatment and refer to a hospital.

More information on meningococcal disease is posted on the EODY website.

Source: RES-MPE