The Piacenza Local Health Authority has taken swift action to prevent the spread of meningitis after two cases were confirmed in the area. A total of 450 people have been subjected to meningitis prophylaxis after coming into contact with a 17-year-old confirmed case or a second 16-year-old girl hospitalized for symptoms suggestive of meningococcal infection.
Those who were in close contact with the patients, including family members, classmates, teachers, and friends, were given antibiotics as a precaution. Additionally, individuals who may have taken a bus with the 17-year-old or frequented a city club where the 16-year-old girl was on Saturday evening were also advised to undergo preventive prophylaxis.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Avo volunteers and the Primary Care department, the tracing and treatment of these contacts have been successfully completed. The 17-year-old’s condition is showing signs of improvement, although still serious, while the 16-year-old girl, who did not display specific symptoms of the disease during her hospital stay, is in good condition and likely to be discharged from Infectious Diseases tomorrow.
The Piacenza Local Health Authority urges anyone who may have come into contact with the infected individuals to seek medical advice and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread of the disease.