Medical expert discusses meningococcal disease trends in Vietnam

Dr. Pham Ngoc Thang has addressed concerns regarding meningococcal disease, noting that while it is an acute infectious disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis, the infection rate remains very low relative to Vietnam's population of over 100 million.

The disease can lead to purulent meningitis, septicemia, septic shock, and rapid death if not treated promptly. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and secretions during close contact. Approximately 10% of the population may carry the bacteria in the nasopharynx without showing symptoms.

High-risk groups include infants, children under five, adolescents aged 15-24, individuals living in collective environments like dormitories or military barracks, and those with compromised immune systems. In Vietnam, the disease is classified as a Group B infectious disease under the Law on Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases.