Question : SPREAD OF MENINGITIS

(a) whether the Government is aware of the report of spread of Meningitis to Delhi and the neighbouring States;

(b) if so, the details thereof including the mode of its transmission and its harmful effects on human beings;

(c) the total number of cases reported so far;

(d) whether the Government has issued any directions in this regard;

(e) if so, the steps taken by the Government to prevent its spread;

(f) whether vaccination for Meningitis is available in CGHS centres; and

(g) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE ( SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI)

(a) to (c): Cases of Meningitis were reported from Delhi, Haryana, Chandigrh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttranchal during the period from 25th April 2005 to 15th July 2005. A total of 444 clinically suspect cases in Delhi and 66 cases outside Delhi (Haryana-44, Uttar Pradesh-4, Chandigarh-6, Uttranchal-3 and Punjab-9) were reported.

The mode of transmission of the disease is by Air. It is transmitted by direct contact with droplets and discharges from nose and throat of patients and carriers.

(d) & (e) The Central Government has issued guidelines for prevention, control and management of Meningococcomia cases including daily reporting of cases to Directorate General of Health Services. A control room has been set up at National Institute of Communicable Diseases to receive samples from hospitals to monitor and review the situation.

Regular monitoring of disease is still continuing by the concerned State Governments. It was made mandatory to notify the disease. Efforts were made for early diagnosis and prompt treatment; contact tracking of the patients and providing chemoprophylaxis. IEC activities were carried out with the participation of the communities.

(f) & (g) Vaccination for meningitis is not available in CGHS dispensaries as it is not included in the routine National Immunization Programme for children.