Time: 2024-06-20
Cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) have been on the rise in Toronto, with Toronto Public Health (TPH) reporting 13 cases since the beginning of the year, the highest caseload in over 20 years. Dr. Vinita Dubey, an associate medical officer of health with TPH, has warned that the average number of cases in a year is usually six, indicating a concerning trend for 2024.
TPH has advised the public to stay vigilant and ensure they are up to date on vaccinations, especially those who are about to participate in events with large crowds. Meningococcal disease, caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitides, can lead to severe complications such as meningitis and septicemia. Symptoms to watch out for include fever, aches, joint pain, headache, stiff neck, and increased sensitivity to light.
Public Health Ontario has noted an uptick in IMD cases over the past two years, coinciding with the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. While vaccines for meningococcal disease have been effective in reducing the overall incidence of the disease since 2000, health officials stress the importance of staying up to date with recommended vaccinations. Children are typically offered the first vaccination at one year of age, with pre-teens and young adults also encouraged to get vaccinated.
Despite the increase in cases in Toronto, infectious disease experts like Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti believe that the risk of wide community spread remains low. He attributes the recent spike to localized clusters and points out that current vaccines are effective in preventing the most commonly seen strains of meningococcal infection. While the meningococcal conjugate vaccine offered to children at 12 months protects against meningococcal C infection, vaccines for other strains like B are available but not given routinely.
The World Health Organization has identified sub-Saharan Africa as a region with a higher risk of IMD, known as the African Meningitis Belt. Countries in this region, along with those with crowded living conditions and immunocompromised individuals, are more susceptible to the disease. In Toronto, outbreaks of IMD have been linked to mass gatherings like the Hajj pilgrimage and international Pride events.
Overall, while the recent increase in IMD cases in Toronto is concerning, health officials are optimistic about containing the spread through vaccination efforts and public awareness campaigns. Staying informed about the symptoms of meningococcal disease and ensuring vaccination coverage are crucial steps in preventing the further spread of this potentially deadly infection.
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