Meningitis rises among labourers

Dubai: Meningitis cases among labourers in Dubai have increased in the first half of the year, causing the emirate's health authority to consider immunising labourers against this life-threatening infectious disease.

Meningitis, the inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and the spinal cord, is caused by viral or bacterial infections, the latter being more serious. It is spread through bacteria in the air, such as from sneezing or coughing.

Dr Ali Al Marzouqi, director of public health at Dubai Health Authority (DHA), told Gulf News that cases in Dubai this year have surpassed last year's total.

"We've had a rise in cases this year. If the cases increase, we're thinking about ... making it a mandatory vaccine for labourers, like it is for Haj pilgrims," he said.

Statistics

He added that officials were monitoring the situation, which he described as being "under control".

According to DHA statistics, 23 cases have been reported so far this year, surpassing last year's total of 19.

More than 3,000 friends and contacts of meningitis patients have been traced and treated with prophylaxis medicines to prevent them from developing the disease.

Dr Al Marzouqi blamed the increase on the large number of people coming in from meningitis-endemic areas, such as India and Africa, and from overcrowding.

He recommended that companies vaccinate their workers, especially during the summer, when meningitis cases tend to reach their highest levels due to the heat and humidity.

"[Vaccinating] saves companies from a loss of productivity," he said. He added that so far, only one company has vaccinated its labourers.

Meningitis requires immediate notification under local and federal health laws.