Meningococcal disease cluster in Chicago has killed two

Chicago health officials report seven confirmed cases of meningococcal disease, including two deaths, and say they are investigating the cluster while tracing contacts and providing preventive antibiotics.

Chicago public health officials issued an urgent alert after confirming a cluster of meningococcal disease in the city. Seven cases have been reported and two people have died. The cluster was first identified in mid-January and officials have not yet determined a source. Health teams have traced recent contacts of the patients and provided preventive antibiotics as part of the response. Known details: - Seven confirmed cases of meningococcal disease in Chicago, with two deaths reported. - The cluster was identified beginning January 15 and no source has been identified. - Public health teams have traced patients' recent contacts and administered preventive antibiotics. - Nationally, reported meningococcal cases have risen since 2021, with preliminary 2024 data showing higher totals than in recent years. Summary: City health officials say the cluster is under active investigation and that contact tracing and preventive antibiotic measures are underway. The immediate investigative and public-health response is ongoing and further developments are undetermined at this time.