SFDPH Health Advisory: Meningococcal Disease September 27, 2013 Physician Resource, Public Health, SF Dept of Public Health health advisory, Meningococcal disease, SFDPH, SFDPH Health Advisory 0 September 20, 2013 TWO CASES OF MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE IN SRO RESIDENTS IN THE TENDERLOIN Two cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) have been diagnosed in females staying in single room occupancy hotels (SROs) in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco, with onset of symptoms on 9/14/13 and 9/16/13. So far these cases have not been directly linked to one another. However, there may be additional cases of meningococcal disease occurring in this population. Because this infection is associated with altered mental status that can initially appear to be due to drug use or other causes, we request that clinicians be alert for additional cases. Actions Requested of All Clinicians Be alert for additional cases compatible with meningococcal disease, especially among persons with altered mental status, those who use drugs, and residents of or visitors to the Tenderloin neighborhood. Immediately (within 1 hour) report all suspect cases of meningococcal disease to the 24/7 Communicable Disease Control Unit (CDCU) at (415) 554-2830. Do not wait for laboratory confirmation to report a clinically suspected case. Any delay in reporting may compromise the ability to identify close contacts and ensure they receive antibiotic prophylaxis. As soon as meningitis or meningococcal infection is suspected, notify your facility’s infection control professional and implement appropriate infection control precautions Obtain blood and CSF cultures prior to administration of antibiotics if possible to enhance detection of N. meningitidis. SFDPH can assist with coordinating Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing if needed. Assist CDCU as requested to identify close contacts of cases of meningococcal disease. If the patient is severely ill or about to be intubated, attempt to identify contacts prior to intubation if possible. Click here to view the SFDPH Health Advisory issued on September 20, 2013. Comments are closed.
