Investigation underway into serious meningococcal infection case involving 57-year-old woman

11th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is currently investigating a case of invasive meningococcal infection, a serious illness that spreads through direct contact with respiratory droplets from carriers or infected individuals. The CHP urges the public to practise good personal and environmental hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

The case involves a 57-year-old woman with a previously good health record. She began experiencing high fever, a productive cough, and shortness of breath on. 7th January. The following day, she sought medical attention at the Accident and Emergency Department of Ruttonjee Hospital, where she was admitted for treatment. Due to heart failure, she was subsequently transferred to the hospital’s intensive care unit on January 9. Laboratory tests later confirmed that her blood sample tested positive for Neisseria meningitidis, leading to a diagnosis of meningococcaemia. The patient is currently in serious condition.

Initial investigations indicate that the patient did not travel during the incubation period, and her household contacts are currently asymptomatic. The CHP continues its investigation into the matter.

“Meningococcal infection is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis and is primarily transmitted through respiratory secretions from infected individuals. The incubation period can range from two to ten days, typically averaging three to four days. Clinical presentations can vary, with severe illness occurring when the bacteria invade the bloodstream (meningococcaemia) or the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningococcal meningitis),” a spokesperson for the CHP explained.

Meningococcaemia may present with a sudden fever, intense headache, purpura, shock, and can be fatal in severe cases. Meningococcal meningitis typically features high fever, severe headache, and a stiff neck, potentially followed by drowsiness, vomiting, sensitivity to light, or a rash. This condition can lead to brain damage, intellectual impairment, hearing loss, and electrolyte imbalances. Invasive meningococcal infections may also result in complications such as arthritis, inflammation of the heart muscle, inflammation of the eye’s posterior chamber, or respiratory infections.

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