Health experts warn public vs. invasive meningococcal disease

CEBU, Philippines — Health experts are raising awareness about invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), a rare but serious bacterial infection that can progress rapidly, sometimes becoming life-threatening within just 24 hours.

Dr. Jo Janette dela Calzada, a pediatric-neurologist, during the IMD round table discussion with media in Cebu City recently, said that IMD can begin with common flu-like symptoms before escalating into a medical emergency.

“Symptoms like headache, sore throat, nausea, difficulty in breathing, and irritability may seem mild at first, but the disease can worsen quickly. Without immediate medical attention, it can be fatal within 24 hours,” dela Calzada said.

She said that because IMD progresses so quickly, parents may not realize their child is in danger until it's too late.

“Survivors of IMD may experience long-term neurological and behavioural complications, which can impact their development and quality of life,” she added.

The Philippines has the highest meningococcal fatality rate in neighboring countries, with half of all cases resulting in death. Survivors may face long-term complications that can affect their ability to grow, learn, and live life to the fullest.

An IMD is caused by the neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Once it enters the body, the infection can develop into sepsis (blood poisoning) or meningitis (brain inflammation), both of which can lead to severe health issues or even death.

In a statement released by GSK, it said that out of the 13 serogroups of IMD, six—A, B, C, X, W, and Y—are the leading cause of nearly all life-threatening cases worldwide.

GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together.

The company said that alarmingly in the Philippines, serogroup B poses a significant threat, accounting for 68 percent of cases in the country from 2018 to 2023, making it the leading cause of IMD in the country.

Dr. Jonathan Lim, a pediatric infectious disease expert, said that “Serogroup B has been the most reported group in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) PCR surveillance tests."

This shift, he said, makes it more important than ever for parents and healthcare providers to recognize the disease and act swiftly.

The GSK added that Central Visayas, particularly Cebu, has recorded some of the highest meningococcal cases in the country.

In 2021, it ranked second in reported cases nationwide, with 14 confirmed cases (13 percent). The National Capital Region (NCR) topped in the rank, with 21 cases (19 percent), followed by CALABARZON, with 13 cases (12 percent), and Region III, with 11 cases (10 percent).

In addition, Cebu Province reported the highest number of births in Region VII in 2023, with 49,098 registered births. Since infants and young children, under five years old, are most at risk especially infants in their first year of life, five medical experts urged parents to be extra vigilant.

Recognizing symptoms early and seeking immediate medical care is critical in managing the IMD.

Dr. Lim said that swift action can save lives.

“Parents should be aware of the warning signs and consult a doctor right away if they suspect IMD. Acting quickly can make all the difference,” he said.

Preventive measures such as regular medical check-ups and full vaccination against meningococcal serogroups A, C, W, and Y, play a vital role in protecting children, Lim said.

Since Serogroup B has a unique structure, and it required a separate vaccine.

Pediatric disease experts are urging parents to take an active role in protecting their children from IMD by staying informed and seeking guidance from healthcare providers.

"Awareness of its risks, symptoms, and prevention is essential. Parents should consult their pediatricians on the complete protection against this fast-moving and potentially life-altering disease,” Lim added.

The GSK said that every child deserved an opportunity to grow, play, and reach their full potential and by recognizing the warning signs of IMD early and seeking medical care immediately, parents can help protect their children from a disease that can take away those possibilities in just one day.