3rd case of meningococcal disease leads to more warnings

OLIVER — Interior Health is taking precautionary measures after a third case of meningococcal disease was confirmed in the Oliver area this week.

Immunizations for meningococcal disease are being expanded to individuals 15 to 24 years of age in the Oliver region, including people from Osoyoos and Okanagan Falls who frequent the area.

The Meningococcal Quadrivalent vaccine will be offered free to ensure appropriate protection.

Although the risk of contracting meningococcal disease remains low, Interior Health is reaching out to this age group as the disease is reported more frequently among 15 to 24 year olds.

All students and staff at South Okanagan Secondary School who have not been vaccinated are encouraged to attend a clinic. People should continue good personal hygiene by not sharing cigarettes or drinking containers, by coughing into elbows or sleeves and by frequently washing their hands.

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that occurs rarely in Canada. It can affect the meninges and blood. Transmission is by direct contact of the secretions of the nose and throat of infected individuals, or by respiratory droplets.

Symptoms include sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, rash, drowsiness or confusion and seizures.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to avoid spreading the disease.

Interior Health will offer immunization clinics at the Oliver Health Centre today from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

People should bring their personal immunization records and B.C. services card or care card to the clinic. Interior Health advises people with symptoms such as high fever, headache, stiff neck or vomiting to seek medical attention.