Meningitis case reported in Piacenza, Italy prompts health authorities to take action
In response to a reported case of meningitis in Piacenza on April 9th, the Local Health Authority has issued a statement regarding the situation. A 16-year-old girl, who had close contact with a 17-year-old with meningococcal infection, began showing symptoms of the illness and was subsequently admitted to the hospital. While her condition is not a cause for concern, health professionals have decided to take precautionary measures.
As part of the investigation, the Health Authority has identified and contacted all close contacts of the infected individuals, including family members, classmates, and friends, to administer antibiotics as per protocol. Additionally, it was discovered that the 16-year-old girl had visited a city venue, Luxury lounge bar, during the night of April 6th and early morning of April 7th.
To ensure the safety of all patrons and employees of the nightclub, health workers have requested a list of employees from the venue owners and are urging anyone who was present during the specified time frame to visit public hygiene clinics on April 11th for preventive prophylaxis. It is emphasized that meningitis is spread through respiratory secretions and close contacts are at higher risk of contracting the disease.
Dr. Alessandra Rampini, Director of Hygiene and Public Health, reminds the public of the importance of health surveillance in identifying potential cases of meningococcal disease. The surveillance period is 10 days from the onset of symptoms in the patient, and it is crucial to seek medical attention if experiencing fever or other suggestive symptoms.
It is advised that no disinfection of rooms is necessary, but proper ventilation is recommended to prevent the spread of the bacterium. The Health Authority continues to monitor the situation closely and urges anyone who may have been in contact with the infected individuals to seek medical attention promptly.