Ho Chi Minh City recorded another case of meningococcal disease on October 21, involving a boy identified as B.T.T., born in 2014 and living in Thuong Tan Commune. He is receiving treatment at Children's Hospital 2.

According to an epidemiological investigation by the Thuong Tan Commune Health Station, the boy began showing symptoms on October 13, including high fever, sore throat, neck pain and severe headaches.

He was examined and treated at several medical facilities before being transferred to Children's Hospital 2.

Tests on his cerebrospinal fluid, including a multiplex PCR assay, confirmed the presence of Neisseria meningitidis, the bacterium responsible for meningococcal disease. He was diagnosed with sepsis and was being monitored for suspected meningitis.

His vaccination records showed that he had received one dose of a meningococcal vaccine covering serogroups A, C, W and Y in 2023, but had not been vaccinated against serogroup B.

Following intensive antibiotic treatment, the boy's condition has improved significantly. His vital signs are stable, his fever has subsided and his neck stiffness has eased.

After being notified of the case, the Thuong Tan Commune Health Station immediately launched an epidemiological investigation and identified close household contacts. They were advised to monitor their health and given preventive medication.

Health workers also disinfected the patient's home using Chloramine B and coordinated with relevant local authorities to trace potential contacts at the English language center and school he had attended.

Health authorities have urged residents to ensure they are fully vaccinated against meningococcal disease and to maintain good personal hygiene and clean living environments.

The latest infection brings the total number of meningococcal disease cases reported in Ho Chi Minh City to five.

Residents experiencing symptoms suggestive of the disease are advised to seek medical attention immediately for timely examination and treatment. Health officials have also warned against taking preventive medication without a doctor's prescription.

Thanh Huyen