Meningococcal Meningitis | Department of Health: Four cases are unrelated; urges the public to take proper precautions

SighingCashier · 2026-03-22T02:32:28+00:00

Hong Kong has recorded 4 cases of invasive meningococcal meningitis so far this year, with the latest involving a 3-year-old boy in serious condition. The Department of Health urges the public to maintain good personal hygiene and notes that vaccines are effective in preventing this disease. The United Kingdom's Kent County is currently experiencing an outbreak of at least 29 cases, with 2 deaths, and the number may increase. Authorities will monitor the health status of students returning to Hong Kong.

SighingCashier

2026-03-22 02:32:28

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Last year, Hong Kong recorded 11 cases of invasive meningococcal infection. So far this year, there have been 4 related cases, with the latest being a 3-year-old boy in critical condition.

The Director of the Department of Health, Dr. Lo Wai-kwan, stated that the four cases in Hong Kong are not epidemiologically linked. The main symptoms are sudden fever, severe headache, and possible rash. He urged the public to pay attention to personal hygiene and emphasized that vaccination is an effective preventive measure.

Dr. Lo also pointed out concerns about the recent outbreak of invasive meningococcal infection in Kent, UK. According to current data, there have been at least 29 cases, with 2 deaths. The number of infections may continue to rise.

Chuang Lok-kin, Director of the Centre for Health Protection, noted that with Easter holidays approaching, many Hong Kong students studying in the UK may return home. The department will monitor travelers at airports for symptoms and has also distributed relevant information to local students and Hong Kong residents in London through the British Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office.

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