HARLINGEN, Texas (VALLEY CENTRAL) — The Texas Department of State Health Services has issued a health advisory regarding an increase in cases of meningococcal disease.
According to DSHS, invasive meningococcal disease has been on the rise since November 2023. Most regions in the state have at least one case, with the highest number in the southeast Texas region, DSHS officials said.
Meningococcal disease is a serious disease caused by bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, DSHS says it can be spread from person to person through saliva or spit. This bacteria can cause meningitis, an infection and inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
The ministry added that the bacteria cannot be spread by “accidental contact” or by breathing the air in an area where an infected person has been.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reported that officials are responding to a statewide outbreak in Virginia.
DSHS recommends regular hand washing and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of germs. Additionally, DSHS is asking the public to immediately report suspected cases of invasive meningococcal disease to their local health department.
Symptoms include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, photosensitivity, rash, confusion, and muscle and joint pain.
“Due to the risk of serious morbidity and mortality, patients suspected of having meningococcal disease should be given effective antibiotics promptly,” the DSHS said.
The Virginia Department of Health reported six deaths and 32 confirmed cases of the disease since June 2022.
