Individuals of all ages, from young children and adolescents to the elderly and women preparing for pregnancy, are actively getting vaccinated.

At VNVC centres, clients undergo thorough health screenings and vaccination history reviews conducted by medical professionals. They are also advised to receive a combination of vaccines covering multiple meningococcal serogroups, particularly groups B and ACYW, to ensure comprehensive protection.

According to Dr. Bach Thi Chinh, Medical Director of VNVC, meningococcal disease progresses extremely rapidly and can lead to death within just 24 hours after the onset of initial symptoms.

Early symptoms are often non-specific and easily mistaken for common respiratory infections, including sore throat, fever, headache, and fatigue. This can result in delayed diagnosis and missed “golden hours” for treatment, significantly increasing the risk of fatal outcomes.

Recent cases in southern Vietnam highlight the severity of the disease. An 11-year-old student in Phu Quoc died shortly after hospital admission due to suspected meningococcal infection, with the condition deteriorating rapidly within the same day. Following the case, health authorities identified and monitored close contacts, including classmates, teachers, and family members.

Notably, one close contact later developed suspected symptoms and was transferred to the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases. The patient experienced severe progression but survived and is now recovering well thanks to timely treatment administered within the critical “golden window” of the first 24 hours.

Medical experts emphasize that anyone without prior immunity is at risk of infection. High-risk groups include young children, students, adolescents, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The disease is further complicated by the circulation of multiple serogroups. Globally, six major serogroups - A, B, C, W, Y, and X - account for most cases. In Vietnam, serogroups A, B, C, and W have been recorded. This means individuals may still be at risk even if they are immune to only one serogroup.

Health experts recommend key preventive measures, including avoiding close contact with infected individuals, strengthening the immune system, seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms are suspected, receiving  combined vaccination for broader protection against multiple serogroups, and maintaining good personal hygiene

For children and those living in shared environments such as dormitories or rental housing, regular sanitation is essential. This includes cleaning floors and disinfecting toys using solutions like Chloramine B for at least 30 minutes.

In addition, exposure to tobacco smoke significantly increases the risk of meningococcal meningitis in children. Adults are strongly advised to avoid smoking near children.

Meningococcal disease alert issued as cases reported across Vietnam

VOV.VN - Health authorities have issued a warning over a rise in meningococcal disease cases reported in several localities, including Kien Giang, Lam Dong, Vinh Long, Can Tho and Hanoi, with at least one fatality recorded.