During mid-March, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health was following up with the health authority in the United Kingdom (UK) about an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent, the UK. The cluster involves 20 patients, two of whom have died, and some of the cases were confirmed to be infected by Group B meningococcus. As the Easter holidays are approaching and overseas students may return to Hong Kong, the CHP reminds members of the public to seek medical advice as soon as possible if they develop symptoms of meningococcal infection. Travellers should consult their doctors for professional advice regarding meningococcal vaccination.

Meningococcal infection is caused by a bacterium known as meningococcus. It is mainly transmitted by direct contact with respiratory secretions, including droplets from the nose and throat, of infected persons. Severe illness may result when the bacteria invade the bloodstream (meningococcaemia) or the membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord (meningococcal meningitis). Meningococcaemia is characterised by a sudden onset of fever, an intense headache, purpura, shock and even death in severe cases. Meningococcal meningitis is characterised by high fever, severe headache, stiff neck followed by drowsiness, vomiting, fear of bright light, or rash; it can cause brain damage or even death.

Members of the public to take the following measures:

• Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly, especially when they are soiled by respiratory secretions, e.g. after sneezing, and clean hands with alcohol-based handrub when they are not visibly soiled;
• Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, hold the saliva with a tissue, dispose of nasal and mouth discharge in a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands immediately;
• Avoid crowded places;
• Avoid close contact with patients who have a fever or severe headache;
• Consult doctors about meningococcal vaccination before travelling to high-risk areas; and
• Seek medical advice if you become ill after returning from high-risk areas, and discuss your recent travel history with your doctor.

Members of the public may visit the CHP’s webpages for more information and preventive advice on Meningococcal Infection, as well as relevant Government's press releases.