Meningitis is a serious disease caused by *Neisseria meningitidis* (腦膜炎雙球菌). This bacterium is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected person.

Incubation Period and Symptoms of Meningococcal Infection

The incubation period for meningococcal infection typically ranges from 2 to 10 days, with symptoms usually appearing within 3 to 4 days. Infection can lead to severe conditions, including:

• Meningococcal Septicemia (腦膜炎雙球菌血症): Caused by bacteria invading the bloodstream, patients may experience sudden fever, severe headaches, and skin petechiae (small red or purple spots). In severe cases, it can lead to shock or death.
• Epidemic Meningitis (流行性腦膜炎): If the bacteria invade the meninges, it can cause epidemic meningitis, which may result in brain damage or death in severe cases.

Additionally, invasive meningococcal infections may lead to complications such as arthritis, endophthalmitis (eye inflammation), pneumonia, or myocarditis.

Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine: Effective Protection Against Multiple Types of Meningitis

Vaccination with the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (腦膜炎雙球菌ACWY型疫苗) can effectively prevent invasive meningococcal diseases caused by the A, C, W-135, and Y strains of *Neisseria meningitidis*.

What You Need to Know About the Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine:

• Common Side Effects: After vaccination, side effects such as pain and redness at the injection site, fatigue, muscle pain, and fever may occur, but these are typically mild.
• Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme: The meningococcal ACWY vaccine (腦膜炎雙球菌ACWY型疫苗) is not included in the “Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme” by the Centre for Health Protection. Parents may consider additional vaccination for their children for added protection.

Who Should Consider Getting the Meningococcal Vaccine?

In addition to children, the following travelers should also consider receiving the meningococcal vaccine to reduce the risk of infection:

1. Travelers staying in sub-Saharan Africa during the dry season, based on risk assessments and local epidemic conditions.
2. Travelers visiting regions where local health authorities have reported outbreaks of meningococcal infection.

Important Reminder:

Travelers can seek advice from a doctor regarding vaccination based on their personal health status, age, and the destination, duration, and nature of their travel.

Conclusion

Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening disease. Vaccination with the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (腦膜炎雙球菌ACWY型疫苗) is an effective way to prevent multiple types of meningitis. To protect your health and that of your family, consult a doctor to learn more about the meningococcal ACWY vaccine.