Don’t panic, but you will have to be vigilant. The Grand-Est Regional Health Agency (ARS) has received several reports of invasive meningococcal infections (IMD) in young adults in Strasbourg and its agglomeration. At least four cases of IIM have been declared since November in people who have frequented nocturnal festive places, indicates the ARS, such as nightclubs, bars, in the hyper-city center of Strasbourg, including the Live Club establishment. .
At this stage, indicates the ARS in a press release, it invites people who regularly attend festive places in this district since November 18 and in particular Live Club in Strasbourg, to monitor the symptoms suggestive of the disease. And if in doubt, call 15 urgently.
The “evocative signs”
The symptoms that can cause doubt are numerous. Severe headaches, sensitivity to light, stiff neck, body aches and fatigue. But also fever, red or purplish subcutaneous spots on the body, very significant pain in the stomach and nausea and, or, vomiting.
Epidemiological investigations have made it possible to identify and treat as a preventive measure people who have been in contact at risk, reassures the ARS. The latter has also raised the awareness of health professionals in the Strasbourg conurbation and is continuing to analyze these situations, in conjunction with Public Health France. It indicates that it “remains mobilized on any other measure aimed at interrupting the chains of transmission. »
How do you catch invasive meningococcal infections?
There are several types. According to the ARS, the most common in France are group B, C, W and Y meningococci. Meningococci are bacteria normally present in the throat and nose of many people. They can be transmitted through the air or through saliva. Meningococcus does not survive in the external environment. Its transmission is human-to-human and requires direct, close (less than 1 meter) and prolonged contact. There are healthy carriers, who do not develop symptoms but can nevertheless transmit the bacteria.
Most often, meningococci do not cause any particular illnesses, but in some cases they can cause very serious illnesses such as meningitis or septicemia. Two symptoms should particularly alert: a poorly tolerated high fever and/or one or more red or purplish spots appearing rapidly on the body. In the slightest doubt, contact urgently 15.