Calls for students going abroad to vaccinate against disease

Students in Macau and Hong Kong who plan to go abroad to pursue further studies are advised to vaccinate against meningococcal, a life-threatening disease.

Experts warn that young children and adolescents are particularly susceptible to these dangerous bacterial infections, which can progress rapidly and prove fatal.

A recent survey by The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong found that parents’ awareness and understanding of meningococcal prevention measures are alarmingly low.

“More than 80% of invasive meningococcal cases result in death within just 24 hours of the initial infection,” said society president So Yiu-wah.

“The speed at which these infections can overwhelm the body is what makes them so deadly, especially for vulnerable younger populations,” he added.

With frequent cross-border travel, the risk of exposure is heightened.

Experts recommend that anyone planning to travel or study abroad take steps to protect themselves.

The society said several popular destinations for Hong Kong students, including the United Kingdom (UK), Australia, and New Zealand, are experiencing an increase in cases of meningococcal disease, which is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.

According to the survey, parents in Hong Kong are dangerously unaware of the severity of meningococcal disease and how to prevent it.

The study found that 30% of parents mistakenly believe the illness can be treated with basic painkillers like paracetamol. Furthermore, one-fifth of respondents did not even know the disease was preventable through vaccination.

For the doctors, these findings show a profound lack of understanding about how life-threatening meningococcal infections can be, especially for young children and teenagers.

“The number of invasive meningococcal infection cases in the UK increased sharply after the Covid-19 pandemic, with about 80% being meningococcal B and half of the victims aged between 15 and 24 […] this is concerning,” he said, as cited in multiple reports.

“Parents are sending their children aged between 15 and 18 abroad to study, and they are a high-risk group and should take precautions as soon as possible.” Staff Reporter