Four meningococcal disease deaths prompt Health Ministry to issue recommendations

Meningococcal disease is a dangerous infectious disease that can progress rapidly and cause severe forms. The Ministry of Health is urging the public to raise awareness of prevention and to actively implement full health protection measures for themselves, their families, and the community.

In a press release issued on the morning of April 13, the Ministry of Health said the number of meningococcal disease cases has been increasing recently and is higher than the same period in 2025.

Recent surveillance findings

According to surveillance reports covering weeks 1 to 14 of 2026, the country recorded 24 cases, including 4 deaths. The age group most affected is children under 15 years old, accounting for 46% of total cases.

Cases have been recorded scattered in the community and have not formed a concentrated outbreak. However, the Ministry notes that the situation indicates a continuing risk of disease and impacts people’s health, especially children.

Prevention guidance from the Ministry

To proactively prevent meningococcal disease, the Ministry asks people to raise awareness of prevention and to fully implement health protection measures for themselves, their families, and the community.

Personal protection

• Practice good personal hygiene: wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.
• Rinse the mouth and throat with antiseptic nasal/throat solutions.
• Wear masks in public places and on public transport.
• Limit contact with infected people.

Environmental hygiene

• Improve ventilation in homes, schools, and workplaces.
• Clean surfaces and daily contact items (doorknobs, tables, toys, etc.) with soap or common cleaners.

Health maintenance

• Eat nutritious foods and engage in physical exercise to boost resistance.

When to seek medical care

The Ministry advises that when there are signs suggesting disease—such as high fever, headache, nausea, neck stiffness, or a rash—individuals should go to the nearest health facility for prompt examination and treatment.

The Ministry emphasizes that early detection and timely treatment are important in limiting severe complications and death from the disease.

About the disease

The Ministry of Health states that meningococcal disease is an acute bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, mainly transmitted through direct contact with secretions from the nose, throat, or mouth of a patient or a healthy carrier.

It can progress rapidly, causing severe forms such as meningitis and septicemia, and can leave serious consequences such as deafness, paralysis, developmental delays, or even death if not detected and treated promptly.