Press Release
The diagnosis of two cases of meningococcal disease has prompted action from Medical Services and Public Health Authorities, which are closely monitoring developments and remain on high alert, having already activated the relevant protocols.
Meningococcus transmission requires close person-to-person contact through respiratory droplets. The primary risk concerns individuals living in the same household as the patient (especially children), those who share the same classroom daily, or adults who work long hours in the same enclosed space (e.g., an office). Meningococcus is not transmitted through brief or casual contact.
In 2024, four cases of meningococcal disease were reported to the Medical and Public Health Authorities. From the beginning of 2025 until today (March 18, 2025), two additional cases have been reported. These cases are unrelated and do not constitute an outbreak.
Transmission can be limited by strictly following personal hygiene measures, such as:
Covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Regular and thorough handwashing, especially after contact with nasal or oral secretions.
Strict use of personal items (plates, glasses, cutlery, toothbrushes, etc.), avoiding shared use.
Meningococcus does not survive in the environment; therefore, special disinfection measures or school closures are not necessary for prevention.
There are two types of vaccines against meningococcus:
Quadrivalent conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) – included in the national vaccination program and provided free of charge by pediatricians.
Protein-based group B vaccine (MenB-4C or MenB-FHbp).
