Meningitis Cases Surge In Kochi: 2 Kids Infected, 3 Show Symptoms — Is Your Child At Risk? (Image Credits: iStock)
Five students from St. Paul's International School in Kalamassery, Ernakulam district, Kerala, have shown symptoms of viral meningitis. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation. The affected students, all from grades 1 and 2, reported fever, headache, and irritability. While their condition is stable, two have been admitted to the ICU for observation. Following this, Ernakulam district medical officer, Dr Asha Devi, ordered the temporary closure of the school as a safety measure.
What is Viral Meningitis?
Meningitis is the swelling of the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is caused by infections from viruses, bacteria, or fungi. The mildest form is viral meningitis, often caused by enteroviruses, mumps, or varicella-zoster viruses.
As per media reports, Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of the Indian Medical Association Research Cell, explained that viral meningitis is less severe than bacterial meningitis. "Meningitis affects the covering of the brain, not the brain itself. Bacterial meningitis is more dangerous and needs antibiotics, but viral meningitis usually gets better on its own with supportive care. Sometimes antiviral medicines are used, depending on the virus," he said.
Symptoms and Who Is at RiskSymptoms of viral meningitis can appear suddenly and may include fever, headache, chills, neck stiffness, tiredness, difficulty focusing, and double vision. In young children and babies, symptoms can also include vomiting, irritability, loss of appetite, sleepiness, and lack of energy.
WHO states that while meningitis can affect people of all ages, young children are most at risk. Their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more likely to get infections. Other high-risk groups include people with weak immunity, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, those with chronic illnesses, and elderly individuals.
How It Spreads
Viral meningitis spreads through coughing, sneezing, close contact, sharing personal items, and touching contaminated surfaces. "Since the children are from the same school, the infection may have spread from one child to another," Dr Jayadevan said. The health department has sent samples to the Institute of Virology in Alappuzha for testing, and results are expected by Wednesday evening.
How to Stay SafeAlthough viral meningitis is usually not life-threatening, taking precautions can help prevent its spread:
Vaccination: Getting vaccines for mumps, measles, and chickenpox can lower the risk.
As authorities wait for test results, parents and school staff are advised to follow hygiene measures to prevent the disease from spreading further. Health officials will continue to monitor the situation to keep students and teachers safe.
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