Rise in meningococcal infections sparks vaccines calls
發佈日期: 2025-07-13 21:31
TVB News
A medical group finds that Hong Kong parents have low awareness of the prevention of meningococcal infection, and calls for early jabs.
Meningococcal is a life-threatening bacterial disease. Hong Kong has reported at least 7 infections so far this year, a record high in five years.
One of the patients was a 73-year-old man who died after two days of hospitalisation.
It usually begins with fever, poor appetite and vomitting. Gradually, patients may find red or purple blisters on their skin. Doctors say there is a chance of developing meningococcal if symptoms persist.
Meningococcal is common in many parts of the world, including the UK, Canada and Australia, which are popular destinations for Hong Kong students.
The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong interviewed 100 Hong Kong mothers, 30 percent of them said they never got their children innoculated.
While among the 34 mums who are planning to send their kids study abroad, 40 percent said they have no plan for vaccination.
Ewan So, President, the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong said, "we can have a look on the UK's experience. After the vaccination, the effectiveness can reduce up to 75 percent in UK. In Canada, it can have a result of 96 percent in reduction."
The latest recommendation is that residents should consult with a doctor at least two weeks before travelling to decide which vaccine to take.
