Two women disinfect classrooms at Hai Ba Trung Middle School in Hiep Phuoc Commune, Ho Chi Minh City after meningococcal cases were confirmed, October 17, 2026. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Health Department
The latest patient, a 12-year-old boy, developed symptoms on Thursday, including a high fever of 40 degrees Celsius, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, and scattered skin hemorrhages.
He was admitted to the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases the same evening and tested positive for meningococcus group B and influenza B.
His condition is stable under antibiotic treatment.
Earlier, three other students from the school were confirmed with meningococcal infections between Wednesday and Friday, one of whom died from septic shock and multi-organ failure.
In response, the city’s health department launched preventive measures, including administering prophylactic antibiotics to close contacts and disinfecting the school.
The Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases reported that as of Saturday, 23 students from the school were hospitalized with respiratory symptoms.
Tests confirmed four cases of influenza A/H1, four cases of influenza B, one case of dual infection with influenza A and B, and 12 samples positive for rhinovirus or seasonal flu. All patients are currently stable.
Officials stressed that while seasonal flu is the dominant cause of respiratory illness in the community, close monitoring of contacts with meningococcal patients remains critical.
Both meningococcal disease and influenza can be prevented through vaccination and basic hygiene practices.
Parents are advised to seek medical care immediately if children develop high fever, severe headache, nausea, stiff neck, unusual fatigue, or skin rashes.
Authorities warned against self-medicating with antibiotics and urged families to follow official guidance.
The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control continued to track contacts of the fourth case and monitor the outbreak closely.
Health experts reminded the public to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing that meningococcal disease spreads through close contact and is not easily transmitted through casual exposure.