Increase in Potentially Deadly Meningococcal Infections in Toronto
An increase in cases was also noted earlier this year in Kingston, Ont., Manitoba, and Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
Two individuals have lost their lives to invasive meningococcal disease in Toronto as the number of cases has risen to 13 so far this year, marking the highest count seen annually since 2002, as per the city’s health unit.
Toronto Public Health is categorizing invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) as a “potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can progress suddenly” and issued an advisory on June 7 urging city residents to stay up-to-date on recommended vaccines.
Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vinita Dubey informed The Epoch Times via email that numerous cases occurred in April and May, and it is likely that more cases will be reported.
“While we cannot predict what will occur for the remainder of the year, we will continue to monitor invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) activity,” Dr. Dubey stated. “The average number of cases seen in a year is 6, and we have already had 13 into early June.”
The bacterial infection can impact individuals of any age, but it is more prevalent in children under five years old, as well as in teenagers and young adults who have not been vaccinated, according to the health unit.
The meningococcal C vaccine is typically given at 12 months of age, while the meningococcal ACYW-135 vaccine is administered to Grade 7 students.
Other Reports of IMD
A rise in IMD cases was also reported earlier this year in Kingston, Ont., Manitoba, and Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
In addition, CIUSSS de l’Estrie-CHUS health officials in February issued an advisory after confirming two IMD cases, one of which was fatal, in Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
What Is IMD and How Is it Treated?
The infection is typically transmitted through saliva and nasal secretions during close, direct contact, the health agency explained.
Health Canada mentioned that some individuals carry the bacterium in their throat or nose without symptoms but can transmit it to others through activities like kissing, coughing, and sneezing.
It can also be spread by living in close quarters, or by sharing items like food, drinks, toothbrushes, mouthguards, cigarettes, lipstick, toys, musical instruments, or other objects that have been in or near the mouth of an individual with the disease.
Symptoms typically emerge between two to 10 days after exposure, and can include sudden fever, drowsiness, irritability, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, and a skin rash starting as reddish/purplish spots that spread rapidly. In severe instances, hallucination, coma, and, if untreated, death can result.
IMD can lead to death in up to 10 percent of those infected, and around one-third of survivors may have lasting disabilities like deafness, brain damage, seizures, nervous system issues, and limb amputation.
Diagnosis involves symptom identification and laboratory tests, according to Health Canada.
“Only your health-care provider can diagnose invasive meningococcal disease using laboratory test results and examining your physical symptoms. See your doctor early if you suspect you may have meningitis since early treatment is more effective.”
IMD is treated with antibiotics for three to seven days and can typically halt bacterial spread within 24 hours of treatment.
