KOHIMA — Following the death of a 14-year-old child who was being treated for suspected meningococcal disease, the state Health and Family Welfare Department on Wednesday said it has intensified surveillance while maintaining that the case appears to be an isolated incident.

According to a senior Health official, public health measures have been activated and district surveillance teams are closely monitoring the situation.

"So far, we have only one suspected case, involving the 14-year-old child who unfortunately passed away. At present, it appears to be an isolated case and there is no reason for the public to panic," the official said.

The official informed that a few students from the same school had developed similar symptoms and were admitted for observation. However, none of them is critically ill.

"Some of the students have already been discharged, while those still under observation are stable. No new patients have been admitted," the official said.

A Rapid Response Team visited the school on Tuesday and carried out the necessary epidemiological investigation, while the department has also issued preventive advisories to educational institutions and the public.

The official said surveillance has been intensified to ensure early detection of any additional suspected cases and to prevent further spread.

Describing meningococcal disease as an uncommon but potentially serious infection, the official said sporadic cases are occasionally reported during this season, although outbreaks remain rare.

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