4.1 Protocol A:  Action for a single case of possible meningococcal meningitis

A Possible case is a clinical diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis or septicaemia without microbiological confirmation where the public health doctor considers that diagnoses other then meningococcal meningitis are at least as likely. No public health measures are necessary and contacts do not need preventive antibiotics unless or until further evidence emerges that changes the diagnostic category.

Action Person/Organisation responsible
1. Admit case to hospital Student Health Centre/General Practitioner
2. Inform and liaise with the Consultant in Communicable Disease Control (CCDC) Student Health Centre/General Practitioner/Local Hospital
3. Inform and liaise with the University Meningitis Policy Coordinator (UMPC) or Deputy CCDC
4. Contact Estate Patrol (to locate) Resident Tutor/Residence Manager/Director of Campus Services/Academic Secretary UMPC
5. Inform and liaise with the Resident Tutor/Residence Manager/Director of Campus Services and the Student Health Centre CCDC/UMPC
6. Inform and liaise with College Dean, the Health and Safety Advisor, other relevant University staff and the Guild of Students UMPC
7. Issue previously prepared communication (1) to students in same residence and/or on the same course Health and Safety Office

No further action is necessary unless there is a change of diagnosis.

Communication