Ernakulam increases surveillance after viral meningitis cases

Health authorities in Ernakulam have increased surveillance after nine children sought treatment for suspected viral meningitis in two weeks. Five cases were confirmed positive for enteroviruses, which spread through contact with infected secretions. The new suspected cases include siblings of previously treated children. Hospitals have been instructed to report any new cases, and St. Paul’s International School has suspended classes until March 25. Symptoms among the children include fever, headache, vomiting, and irritability. Experts from the National Institute of Virology are assessing the situation in Kochi.