New Delhi, Mar 9 (UNI) Meningococcal disease or brain fever has so far claimed six lives in Delhi since November and more than 60 cases have been confirmed.

Delhi Principal Health Secretary D S Negi confirmed the figures and said hospitals across the capital have been issued special instructions to treat the patients.

Pointing out that the disease is endemic in Delhi during this time of the year, he said situation was under control and their was no reason to panic .

''Though the bacterial-disease is contagious.... The situation is under control,'' he reaffirmed.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has been instructed to increase surveillance with regard to the disease and provide special training to doctors and paramedical staff to face the situation.

''There is no vaccine for this disease. We have to be prepared to check its spread and we are ready to do that,'' he added.

Advising people to seek medical help if they have symptoms of the disease -- rashes, headaches and fever, Mr Desai said since meningococcal disease was contagious any delay in treatment could prove fatal.

He said people must avoid crowded places and maintain personal hygiene.

UNI