The Meghalaya government on Friday issued a health advisory after two Agniveer trainees at the Assam Regimental Centre in Shillong died from a suspected meningococcal bacterial infection over the past week. Authorities have quarantined the remaining 28 trainees and are keeping them under close medical observation.

The State Surveillance Unit (SSU) was notified of the suspected cases, and the District Surveillance Unit (DSU), East Khasi Hills, in coordination with the SSU, has launched an active epidemiological investigation. Measures underway include case investigation, contact tracing, laboratory reviews, and strengthening of surveillance in the area.

In its advisory, the government reassured the public that the situation is being closely monitored and is currently under control. Officials confirmed that no new suspected cases have been reported outside the Assam Regimental Centre. “All necessary public health measures, including monitoring of close contacts and implementation of preventive interventions, are being carried out as per standard outbreak response protocols,” the advisory stated.

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Citizens have been urged to wear masks, avoid crowded places, and maintain good respiratory hygiene by covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Regular hand hygiene and a balanced, nutritious diet to support immunity were also recommended.

The government advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as sudden high fever, headache, vomiting, rapidly spreading purpuric rash, pale extremities, circulatory collapse, shock, or multi-organ failure occur. Health officials emphasized that timely reporting and care are critical in preventing the spread and severity of meningococcal infection.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while implementing containment and preventive measures to ensure the safety of the trainees and the wider community.

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