Ministry Confirms Two Cases From Navesau Adventist High School

Both patients now admitted at the CWM Hospital in Suva.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has confirmed that two students from Navesau Adventist High School in Tailevu were diagnosed with meningococcal disease. They are admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. The ministry said the students have been provided with the required medical care and treatment. According to FBC reports, the Permanent Secretary for Education Alison Burchell said the school was closed, not only for the outbreak but for renovation works as well.

Meningococcal disease is a lifethreating disease caused by the bacteria Neisseria Meningitidis.

It can cause infections in the lining of the brain (meningitis) and in the blood (meningococcemia), or both. These conditions are very serious and can be deadly, but can be treated if detected early.

In 2018, there have been 18 cases as of February 21, with four confirmed deaths so far.

The meningococcal disease bacteria are not easily transmitted, but are spread from person to person via transfer of saliva or spit. This can happen when a person with the bacteria coughs on an uninfected person, or deeply kisses an uninfected person on the mouth. It may also be spread through sharing of drinks from the same glass/cup, water bottle or bowl, for example, kava or taki alcohol at nightclubs. Babies and children under the age of 5 frequently put things in their mouths, therefore they are also at risk of getting the bacteria.