HANOI (Xinhua): Vietnam's Health Ministry has warned of a potential outbreak of meningococcal disease (infection leading to meningitis/septicemia) as the South-East Asian country reported 24 cases, including four deaths, in the first 14 weeks of this year, according to local daily VnExpress on Monday, reported Xinhua.
Children under 15 accounted for 46 per cent of total cases during the period.
The number of infections has risen in recent weeks and is higher than in the same period last year, said the report.
For the record, meningococcal disease is a life-threatening, rapidly progressive infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, often leading to meningitis or septicemia. Symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, headache, and a dark rash. It is spread through close contact with saliva and treated with antibiotics; vaccination is key for prevention.
The ministry advised citizens to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as symptoms.
Early detection and timely treatment play a crucial role in preventing severe complications and reducing mortality, the ministry said. -- Xinhua
