The Department of Health is looking into a severe case of invasive meningococcal disease of a 57-year-old male patient, who is currently in critical condition.
The patient collapsed at home last Thursday (Jul 31) and was sent to the Caritas Medical Centre's emergency department, where he was hospitalized. He was transferred to Kwong Wah Hospital the following day.
Laboratory tests of his cerebrospinal fluid confirmed a positive result for Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), with a clinical diagnosis of meningitis.
Preliminary investigations by the health authorities revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. None of his household contacts has shown symptoms so far.
Close contacts have been given preventive medication, and the investigation is ongoing.
Meningococcal infection is one of the statutory notifiable diseases, and the Centre for Health Protection has recorded eight cases this year.
Meningococcal infection is mainly transmitted by direct contact with respiratory secretions, including droplets from the nose and throat, of infected persons. Severe illness may result when the bacteria invade the bloodstream or the membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord.
The symptoms of Meningococcaemia included sudden onset of fever, an intense headache, purpura, shock and even death in severe cases, while Meningococcal meningitis is characterised by high fever, severe headache, stiff neck followed by drowsiness, vomiting, fear of bright light, or rash; it can cause brain damage or even death.
