Following the confirmation of a case of invasive meningococcal disease in the Maldives, health authorities have launched a series of precautionary measures to contain its spread.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said it is currently gathering information related to the case, conducting contact tracing, administering preventive medication to high-risk individuals, and implementing additional safety protocols.

What is meningococcal disease?

Invasive meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection. While rare in the Maldives, reported cases have typically involved individuals infected abroad.

Symptoms include fever, a red rash, and neck stiffness. In severe cases, the disease can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) or sepsis (a life-threatening bloodstream infection). The two main forms of the illness are meningitis and meningococcal sepsis.

How does it spread?

Meningococcal disease is transmitted through the respiratory system and primarily affects those in close contact with an infected person. This includes:

Close contacts are advised to take antibiotic chemoprophylaxis, ideally within 24 hours of identifying the index case, regardless of vaccination status.

Symptoms typically appear between one and ten days after exposure, with the highest risk of infection among those in prolonged close contact.

How to stay safe

To reduce the risk of infection, authorities recommend the following preventive measures:

Health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and follow these precautions to protect themselves and others.