ILOILO CITY – A man from Miag-ao town in southern Iloilo province died from suspected meningococcemia, a serious bacterial disease affecting the bloodstream.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office disclosed on Monday, Aug. 4, the death of the 58-year-old man from suspected meningococcemia.
Dr. Rodney Labis said the man died on Sunday, Aug. 3, while admitted to a government hospital.
The local government unit (LGU) of Miag-ao under Mayor Richard Garin previously announced the possible case over the weekend.
The LGU disclosed that the patient initially sought medical checkup in a first aid clinic (FAC) in the town proper.
The patient was later taken to the Rep. Pedro G. Trono Memorial Hospital in neighboring Guimbal town, where he died.
The man exhibited symptoms, including muscle pains, fever, and rashes.
The Municipal Health Office found 10 close contacts of the fatality. They were put under home isolation and given antibiotic prophylaxis.
Also placed under home isolation and provided antibiotic prophylaxis were the driver who transported the infected person to the hospital and personnel of the FAC.
The FAC underwent massive disinfection over the weekend.
The public was urged to intensify hygiene practices, including thorough washing of hands and wearing face masks.
Meningococcemia is primarily transmitted through direct contact with secretions such as saliva or spit from an infected person.