New Jersey health officials consider Princeton meningococcal disease cases an outbreak
After the seventh case of meningococcal meningitis was diagnosed in a Princeton University student this weekend, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) said they considered the situation an outbreak, according to a statement Saturday.
For the purposes of this situation, and in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the NJDOH is considering this to be a school-based outbreak of meningococcal disease. Given that we have 6 individuals diagnosed with Neisseria meningitidis serogroup (type) B in a short period of time, in an abundance of caution, we are considering this an outbreak. The 7th case remains under investigation and laboratory data are pending. We hope that by considering this an outbreak, we will increase awareness and prompt early case recognition among members of the Princeton community and healthcare providers.
The seven cases have occurred since March of this year; however, health officials say there is no common link between the cases.
“Cases of meningococcal disease can occur sporadically in college settings since this population has an increased risk for meningococcal disease. “
Health authorities are not recommending the cancellation of activities or events at Princeton due to this outbreak.
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