Panama: Viral meningitis cluster reported in David, Chiriquí
Health officials in Panama (Minsa) report a total of eight confirmed cases of viral meningitis due to enterovirus as of Wednesday.
Authorities from the Ministries of Education and Health decided, together with parents, to suspend classes at the José María Roy school for two days (Thursday and Friday), after confirming four more new cases of Enterovirus viral meningitis.
This follows four cases reported April 15.
The measure suggested for this school located in David, seeks to prevent new infections, verify the sanitary and biosafety conditions of the facilities, reported the regional medical director of the MINSA, Gladys Novoa.
Novoa warned the total cases could increase if the recommendations and standards required to avoid the chain of contagion are not adopted.
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The attention to the outbreak of viral meningitis due to enterovirus in the educational establishment will continue next week with the preliminary clinical evaluation (triage) of children who present symptoms such as headache, fever and neck stiffness.
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Novoa pointed out that the epidemiology and biosafety teams will continue to carry out the corresponding surveillance but a high percentage of the situation improving must be provided by the caregivers by reiterating the hygiene and cleanliness of hands, water and drinks to be ingested.
Symptoms of viral meningitis can include fever, headache, sensitivity to light, lethargy or tiredness, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting.
It is important that all people with symptoms of meningitis are seen by a doctor immediately. Viral meningitis can sometimes cause serious illness on its own and symptoms are very similar to those of bacterial meningitis, which requires urgent medical treatment.
Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis, which is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It is usually much less severe than bacterial meningitis, and most people get better without treatment within seven to 10 days.
Enteroviruses are spread from person to person through respiratory droplets, saliva, feces or contact with contaminated items or water.
The best means of protecting yourself from infection and stopping transmission is through effective hand washing and good hygiene practice. This is particularly important prior to eating, after using the toilet, changing a nappy or helping care for a sick person.
There is no specific treatment for most cases, with rest and plenty of fluids recommended and medication to manage any pain and headaches.