Health centre partially closed after suspected meningococcal case

Nuffield Health Centre in Tamavua has been placed under quarantine following the detection of a meningococcal disease case.

A woman, who remains at the health centre, is expected to be transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

Hospital staff were seen wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE) as the gate to the health centre was closed off to the public.

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection, health staff followed standard infection-control protocols which included the use of personal protective equipment (masks, gowns, gloves).

The Ministry of Health said: "To allow the team to respond appropriately and safely, services were temporarily disrupted at the health centre. The health centre has since reopened with full services.

"At this stage, the case remains suspected, awaiting confirmation of laboratory results. Appropriate medical investigation and management were initiated and the patient is receiving the necessary care and follow-up.

"While we normally record up to 10 meningococcal cases a year, we urge the public to be aware of their symptoms and present early to a health facility. Early treatment is critical for better outcome."