HONG KONG, Feb. 1(Xinhuanet)-- Meningitis cases in the Mainland are being closely monitored, Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection Consultant Thomas Tsang said here Tuesday, adding the chance of a meningococcal meningitis outbreak in Hong Kong is relatively low.

Speaking at a press conference, Tsang said the number of cases of meningococca l meningitis usually increases in winter and springin temperate regions.

Sporadic cases may occur in Hong Kong in the coming months because of the expected increase in passenger flow between Hong Kong and the Mainland during the Lunar New Year, Tsang said.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Health, Welfare& Food York Chow askedthe public not to panic because this disease is treatable and preventable.

There are possible vaccinations for such meningococcal meningitis infections, Chow said, adding the current vaccine is also able to cover type"C" of the infection.

The travel industry has been informed of the latest situation and is advised to take appropriate precautions. Letters have been sent to doctors and medical groups and sufficient medicines have also been reserved. More pamphlets will be distributed at all boundary check points.