Health Advice to prevent Meningococcal Infection
In the light of the recent outbreaks of meningococcal infection in some parts of the Mainland China, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is closely monitoring the situation and urges members of the public to observe good personal hygiene in order to prevent meningococcal infection.

Disease Information
Meningococcal infection is caused by a bacterium known as meningococcus. It is transmitted by direct contact, including droplets from the nose and throat of infected persons. The incubation period varies from 2 to 10 days, commonly 3 to 4 days. The clinical picture may be variable. Severe illness may result when the bacteria invade the bloodstream (causing meningococcaemia) or the brain (causing meningitis). Meningococcaemia is characterised by the sudden onset of fever, intense headache, purpura, shock and even death in severe cases. Meningitis is characterised by sudden onset of intense headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, photophobia and stiff neck. Early cases can be treated effectively with antibiotics.

Health advice
1. Wash hands frequently, observe good personal and environmental hygiene
2. Avoid crowded places
3. Avoid close contact with patients having fever or severe headache
4. Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, and hold the spit with tissue, discard it into a bin with a
lid and wash hands immediately
5. Travellers returning from endemic areas should consult the doctors promptly if they feel unwell after the trips. Let the doctors know their travel histories.

The impact of Red Imported Fire Ants on us
Given their large populations and aggressiveness, Red Imported Fire Ants may have an impact on ecology and the natural environment.
Red Imported Fire Ants may also give humans a fiery sting. The sting can give a painful, itchy and burning sensation. A blister will form at the base of each sting and the wound will usually heal in 10 to 14 days if it is tended properly. On rare occasions, it can cause severe acute allergic reactions which may lead to death. According to current information, instances of severe acute allergic reactions caused by Red Imported Fire Ants are rare.

What should we do if stung by a Red Imported Fire Ant?
People should avoid coming into contact with Red Imported Fire Ants. If you are stung by one, please take the following measures:
Wash the wound with soap and water and keep the blisters intact
Apply a cold compress to relieve the swelling and pain
Do not scratch the blisters
If necessary, seek medical attention and if you are allergic to insects or you have rapid onset of flushing, general hives; swelling of the face, eyes or throat; chest pain; nausea; excessive sweating; breathing difficulties, and dizziness, see a doctor immediately.

For more information, please call the Department of Health hotline at 2575 1221 during office hours, or visit the website of the Hong Kong Travellers' Health Service at http://www.info.gov.hk/trhealth/e_HKTHS.htm.
Sources from : Centre for Health Protection & The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
CT/No.41(2-2005)