Meningitis during the hot season is a common occurrence, with pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Hib being the primary culprits. However, vaccines are available that can prevent these infections, with over 90% effectiveness. Dr. Tran Huynh Tan, the Medical Manager of VNVC Vaccination System, emphasized that meningitis can occur sporadically throughout the year but has an increased trend during the hot season due to favorable conditions for pathogens to multiply and develop.
Meningitis is a severe infection of the central nervous system that can result in death or severe sequelae. Bacterial meningitis caused by these pathogens can be fatal within 24 hours if not treated promptly. Vaccines are available for prevention starting as early as two months old for both children and adults. It is essential to maintain a clean living environment, practice good hygiene, and seek medical attention if symptoms of meningitis are present.
Pneumococcal meningitis has a high mortality rate and can cause serious sequelae like brain damage or deafness. The disease progresses rapidly and requires prompt treatment to prevent fatalities or long-term complications like paralysis or cognitive impairment. There is a vaccine available for pneumococcus that is 97% effective in preventing the disease and its complications.
Meningococcal meningitis often occurs suddenly with various symptoms like fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and coma-like states. The disease can lead to death or permanent neurological sequelae like paralysis or memory loss if left untreated. There are vaccines available to prevent meningococcal infection from common strains of the bacteria in Vietnam that have been shown to be effective in reducing cases of bacterial meningitis among children under five years old.
In addition to vaccination, maintaining personal hygiene practices such as regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers can help prevent the spread of these infections. It is also essential to seek medical attention promptly if any symptoms of meningitis are present as early diagnosis and treatment can save lives.
Overall, vaccination is an effective way to prevent bacterial meningitis caused by pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Hib bacteria during the hot season or any other time of year. Maintaining good hygiene practices and seeking medical attention when necessary can also help reduce the risk of contracting this severe infection that could have life-altering consequences on individuals’ health
