At least 15 cases of meningococcal infection have been registered in Bishkek since the beginning of the year. The Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance of Bishkek reported.
According to its data, six patients were admitted to infectious diseases hospital in extremely serious condition, one of them died despite the efforts of medical workers to save human life.
Meningococcal infection is one of the most severe infectious diseases, especially among children from one to five years old.
The Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance added that one of the reasons for the severity of the patients’ condition is late seeking medical help (on the 5th −7th day) and self-treatment at home.
Meningitis begins acutely with a rise in body temperature to high figures against a background of complete health. Relatives can name the exact hour when the person fell ill. During the first or second day, the patient has sharp headache, repeated vomiting, disturbance of consciousness, agitation and even delirium, characteristic posture (lying on his side with head thrown back and legs pulled up to the stomach). An important difference from food poisoning is that there is no relief from vomiting in case of meningitis.
Appearance of rash is the most frightening symptom, although many assume that the rash is a consequence of an allergy to products, medications, or something else.
The source of infection is primarily a sick person, especially with severe forms of the disease. The disease can be contracted through airborne droplets.
«The outcome of the disease depends largely, if not all, on the patient: the sooner he or she turns to the doctor, the faster and without complications he or she will recover. Sometimes illness counts for hours, and untimely treatment can lead to the loss of a loved one. At the first sign of illness, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance, hospitalize the patient and do not self-medicate in no case,» the center said.
The center reminded about preventive measures. The first step is to boost immunity: to intensify physical training and sports, to carry out preventive treatment of diseases of the nasopharynx — tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis.
«It is necessary to observe the mode of airing the premises, wet cleaning with disinfectants, especially in preschools, schools, cinemas and during other entertainment events,» the center noted.
