Greece reports 3 meningococcal disease cases at university institutions in Patras
Greek officials with the National Public Health Organization (EODY) report that while the mandatory notifiable disease, meningococcal disease, was at its lowest levels during COVID-19, they report in 2023, the incidence of meningococcal disease increased reaching prepandemic levels and in 2024, a total of 12 cases from all over the country have been reported to EODY.
In particular, three (3) of the above cases concern students of University Institutions of the city of Patras (University of Patras, University of Peloponnese) that were reported to EODY during the time period Jan. 11 until today.
The detection of 3 cases of meningococcal disease of the same serogroup (not specified) in an organization (School, University Institution, etc.) during a period of three months constitutes an outbreak of cases and it is recommended to extend the administration of chemoprophylaxis to a wider cycle of close contacts and targeted vaccination of close contacts of cases.
Since the appearance of the first case, EODY has been in close cooperation with the 6th Health Region, the Directorate of Public Health of the Region of Western Greece and the competent authorities of the university institutions. Instructions were sent regarding the investigation of contacts of the cases and the immediate administration of chemoprophylaxis.
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In addition, following relevant information and instructions from the Deputy Minister of Health Mrs. Irini Agapidakis, in early March carried out an on-site intervention with the transition of the level and the participation of the Mobile Health Teams (MOHY) of the EODY in Patra. The team updated the students studying in the departments where the cases appeared and will administer chemoprophylaxis to the close and wider contacts of the cases, while targeted vaccination of close contacts is recommended, according to the opinion of the National Immunization Committee (NEC).
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EODY particularly emphasizes the great importance of early detection and treatment of cases of meningococcal disease. Citizens and especially young people who have clinical symptoms compatible with the disease (fever and rash) should immediately contact a doctor. Physicians on suspicion of meningitis must immediately administer treatment and refer to a hospital.