Image Credit: ADOBE STOCK
December 28, 2017 - 4:48 PM
OKANAGAN - The Interior Health Authority has confirmed another case of meningococcal disease.
This is the twelfth case in the outbreak, and Interior Health says it is outside the Okanagan region, where most of the illnesses have been occurring.
“Whenever we identify a new case, we actively follow up with anyone who has been in close contact with that individual, and we provide them with antibiotics if necessary,” medical health officer Dr. Trevor Corneil says in the release. “That follow-up is occurring.”
The health authority has not released any specific details about the recent case, but says those at highest risk continue to be residents of the Okanagan who are between the ages of 15 to 19 or in grades 9 to 12.
Health officials are recommending that this high risk group be immunized against the disease, which can be fatal. The vaccine is available at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations and at public health centres. To see a full list of where to obtain the Meningococcal Quadrivalent vaccine, click here.
“All individuals should continue to practice good personal hygiene by not sharing cigarettes, utensils or water bottles, by coughing into elbows or sleeves, and by frequently washing their hands to help reduce the spread of this disease,” the health authority says in the release.
If you are outside of this age group and believe you may be vulnerable to this disease, contact your care provider or pharmacist.
Click here for more information about the meningococcal outbreak in the Okanagan.
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