August 25 – Today, Toronto Public Health (TPH) issued a news release confirming three cases of invasive meningococcal disease in Toronto. The three affected people, between the ages of 20 and 30, started showing symptoms between July 15 to 17.
They were born outside of Canada in countries that do not offer meningococcal disease vaccinations for children. One of them has died.
TPH has been unable to find a connection between these cases. However, it was determined that all three patients shared a rare Serogroup C meningococcal disease strain.
Meningococcal disease refers to any illness caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are often severe, can be deadly, and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream.
Symptoms begin with fever, aches, joint pain, headache, stiff neck and photophobia. If you are experiencing these symptoms, call your health care provider.
Any illness caused by bacteria, Neisseria meningitidis, is called Meningococcal disease. The illnesses are usually severe and deadly, it can cause infections in the brain lining, spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream.
The first signs of symptoms include fever, aches, joint pain, headache, stiff neck, and photophobia. Call your healthcare practitioner if you see any of these symptoms.
It is highly advised that adults between the ages of 20 and 36 who have not had the meningococcal disease vaccine immediately get in touch with their doctor to schedule a meningococcal disease vaccination. TPH will keep an eye on vaccine demand and is continuously looking into new immunization methods.
The best defence against meningococcal disease is to be up to date on recommended vaccinations. Meningococcal bacteria can spread by sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). These bacteria typically need close or prolonged contact to spread.
With a population of over 2.9 million, Toronto is one of the world’s most varied and livable cities. It also serves as Canada’s main economic engine. Toronto, the fourth-largest city in North America, is a global leader in technology, finance, cinema, music, culture, and innovation. Visit the City of Toronto website for more details on the invasive meningococcal disease.
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