Meningococcal disease in India - update 4

14 June 2005

As of 8th June, 2005, the cumulative total is now 405 cases with 48 deaths (CFR=11.9 %). 314 cases discharged from hospital.

Control measures are underway including contact tracing, chemoprophylaxis of household contacts, and immunization of high risk groups. Serogroup A has been confirmed by the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD).

Public education, surveillance, vaccination of high risk population and chemoprophylaxis for close contacts within 48 hours of case detection continues. Adjacent districts and states have been alerted on the need to be vigilant for any suspected case and to take appropriate public health actions.

WHO is working closely with the national authorities and providing technical support to the health authorities in the form of guidelines and tools on meningococcal disease. WHO is providing inputs to the technical working group to assist with surveillance, early detection, laboratory, case management, prevention and control. WHO is assisting with the epidemiological analysis and in improving preparedness and response.