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By Tom Mark

IH Confirms New Meningococcal Case Not in Okanagan

Dec 28, 2017 | 4:48 PM

Interior Health confirms an additional case of meningococcal disease

Interior Health (IH) has confirmed another case of meningococcal disease within the health authority. While this most recent case is outside of the Okanagan region, those persons at highest risk continue to be residents of the Okanagan who are between the ages of 15-19 or in grades 9-12.

IH continues to recommend that this high risk group be  immunized against meningococcal disease. The Meningococcal Quadrivalent vaccine is available at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations and at public health centres.

“Whenever we identify a new case, we actively follow up with anyone who has been in close contact with that individual, and we provide them with antibiotics if necessary,” said Dr. Trevor Corneil, VP, Population Health & Chief Medical Health Officer. “That follow-up is occurring.”

Earlier this month, Interior Health declared an outbreak of meningococcal disease for the Okanagan for 15-19 year olds, due to an increasing number of cases present in the region. Immunizations have been offered at public health centres and more recently at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations throughout the Okanagan. To see a full list of where to obtain the Meningococcal Quadrivalent vaccine, visit interiorhealth.ca.

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All individuals should continue to practice good personal hygiene by not sharing cigarettes, utensils or water bottles, by coughing into elbows or sleeves, and by frequently washing their hands to help reduce the spread of this disease.

If you are outside of this age group and believe you may be vulnerable to this disease, contact your care provider or pharmacist.

For more information about the meningococcal outbreak in the Okanagan, visit interiorhealth.ca.

by Tom Mark

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