The Meghalaya government on Friday issued a public health advisory after suspected cases of meningococcal infection were reported at an Army training centre, following the deaths of two Agniveer trainees. Authorities have begun identifying and isolating all close contacts and have carried out fumigation in affected areas as part of immediate containment efforts.
Health teams have intensified monitoring in institutions and communities where close contact could raise transmission risk, while officials stressed there is no need for panic at this stage. The State Surveillance Unit (SSU) has been notified and an active epidemiological investigation has been launched, the Health and Family Welfare Department said.
The District Surveillance Unit (DSU), East Khasi Hills, working with the SSU and led by Commissioner and Secretary Dr Joram Beda, is conducting case investigations, contact tracing, laboratory reviews and measures to strengthen surveillance. The SSU said the situation is being closely monitored and is presently under control, and that no new suspected cases have been detected in other areas so far.
All standard outbreak-response measures are being implemented, including identification and follow-up of close contacts and appropriate preventive interventions. The department advised people to wear masks if unwell or when in crowded places, practise respiratory hygiene by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid crowded areas where possible, and maintain regular hand hygiene with soap and water or sanitiser.
Citizens were also urged to eat a balanced, nutritious diet to support immunity. Anyone experiencing symptoms-such as sudden high fever, severe headache, vomiting, a rapidly spreading purpuric rash, later-stage pale limb extremities, or signs of circulatory collapse, shock or multi-organ failure-should report immediately to the nearest medical facility.
Officials appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information, emphasising that rapid identification and preventive action are critical. For urgent medical assistance the public may contact the 14410 call centre.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/north-east/meghalaya-issues-health-advisory-after-two-suspected-meningococcal-infection-deaths-1608911
Category: North East
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Publish Date: 2026-02-27 18:36:00
