Assoc Prof Dr Cao Hữu Nghĩa, Head of Biomedical Science Department, Pasteur Institute in HCMC, speaks at the seminar. — Photo courtesy of the organiser

HÀ NỘI — Health experts shared experiences in preventing and clinical care of invasive meningococcal disease at the scientific seminar series held in HCM City and Hà Nội from August 5 to 7.

The events, entitled 'Optimising Prevention of Invasive Meningococcal Disease: From Clinical Evidence to Real-World Data', were jointly organised by the Tâm Anh Research Institute (TAMRI) and Pfizer Vietnam.

The programme aimed to update medical knowledge and enhance the capabilities of healthcare professionals in preventing invasive meningococcal disease, an acute infectious condition transmitted via the respiratory tract that can lead to death within 24 hours if not diagnosed and treated in time.  

At the event, experts shared a comprehensive perspective on the epidemiological situation and disease burden of invasive meningococcal diseases in Việt Nam, strategies to optimise early prevention, as well as real-world data on the effectiveness of meningococcal vaccines in preventing the dangerous diseases.

Participants heard that invasive meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. This bacterium is classified into 12 different serogroups, among which serogroups A, B, C, W and Y are the most common and dangerous, responsible for 96 per cent of invasive meningococcal disease cases worldwide.

The meningococcal bacteria are diverse, vary in distribution, and can change depending on age, time and geographic region. The two most frequently observed forms of the disease are septicemia and meningitis.

Although relatively rare, invasive meningococcal infections can progress rapidly and may lead to death within just 24 hours after the onset of symptoms.

According to experts, invasive meningococcal disease can occur at any age but is most common in children under one year of age, adolescents aged 14 to 23, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Notably, the risk is also higher among those living in crowded communal environments such as daycare centres, schools, dormitories and military barracks, or among travellers to regions experiencing high case numbers.

Experts at the seminar emphasised that due to the severity of the disease, its potential for rapid fatality, and its long-term complications, early and proactive prevention is essential. 

Assoc Prof Dr Cao Hữu Nghĩa, Head of Biomedical Science Department, Pasteur Institute in HCMC, said: “According to the meningitidis disease prevention guidelines from the Vietnam Association of Preventive Medicine, to prevent meningitidis disease, it is necessary to proactively get vaccinated early, with priority given to high-risk groups such as children (especially those under one year old), adolescents, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions, particularly those living or working in crowded places such as schools, universities, nursing homes and military camps.”  

Dr Bulent Nuri Taysi, Senior Director of Vaccines and Antivirals in Emerging Asia for Pfizer's Medical Division, added: “Real-world data from different countries have shown that the use of meningococcal vaccines, including quadrivalent conjugate vaccines (MenACWY), is highly effective in reducing disease incidence, bacterial carriage, and transmission in the community.

"Therefore, timely and complete vaccination based on scientific recommendations is one of the most effective solutions to protect both individuals and communities from this serious disease.”

In addition to vaccination, the leading strategy for preventing meningococcal disease, experts at the seminar recommended combining other preventive measures to enhance protection. In cases of contact with infected individuals, the management should be followed with the physician’s recommendations.

It is also important to wear a mask when in close contact with people showing respiratory symptoms, maintain personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, rinse the mouth, and clean the nasal and throat areas. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and ensuring well-ventilated living spaces also help boost immunity. If any symptoms appear, individuals should seek immediate medical attention for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Globally, over 1.2 million cases of invasive meningococcal disease are reported annually, with an estimated 135,000 deaths. Most cases occur in otherwise healthy individuals. Mortality rates vary significantly between industrialised and underdeveloped countries.

In Việt Nam, according to the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, the incidence of the disease between 1991 and 2000 was 2.3 cases per 100,000 people.

While invasive meningococcal disease can appear year-round, outbreaks are more likely to occur during the autumn, winter, and spring seasons, particularly in mountainous and border regions. Children and adolescents are the most vulnerable age groups and also exhibit the highest rates of asymptomatic bacterial carriage. — VNS