A woman is in a serious but stable condition in a Hunter hospital with a confirmed case of
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meningococcal disease. This is the fifth case of meningococcal disease from the Hunter New
England region this year.
In 2015 there were nine confirmed cases of meningococcal disease in the Hunter New England
Local Health District. There were 11 confirmed cases in 2014, 11 confirmed cases in 2013, nine
in 2012, 15 in 2011 and 13 in 2010.
Close contacts of the woman are being prescribed clearance antibiotics. There are no links
between this case and any previous cases.
"Meningococcal disease may be very severe and the community needs to be on the alert for its
symptoms, particularly in winter. If anyone suspects meningococcal disease, they should seek
medical attention immediately.
“The meningococcal C vaccine is recommended for all babies at 12 months of age. Vaccines
provide the best protection if they are completed on time so please visit your GP or child and
family health nurse if your child is due to be vaccinated," Public Health Physician, Dr David
Durrheim said.
Up to 10 per cent of patients with invasive meningococcal disease in Australia die as a result of
the infection. The first symptoms of meningococcal disease may include pain in the legs, cold
hands and feet and abnormal skin colour.
Later symptoms may include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights, nausea
and vomiting, a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises and drowsiness. Babies with the infection
can be irritable, not feed properly and have an abnormal cry.
"Meningococcal infection does not spread easily. It is spread by secretions from the nose and
throat of a person who is carrying it and close and prolonged contact is needed to pass it on. It
does not appear to be spread through saliva or by sharing drinks, food or cigarettes," Dr
Durrheim said.
He stressed that while meningococcal disease could be serious, in most cases, early detection
and treatment resulted in a complete recovery.
Most cases of meningococcal disease are seen in infants, young children, teenagers and young
adults, although people of any age can be infected.
Several strains of meningococcal bacteria cause disease in Australia. Previously the
meningococcal C strain was common, but this is now rare following introduction of
meningococcal C vaccine on the National Immunisation Program in 2003. Other strains are
currently the most common. This means that young people who have had the meningococcal C
vaccine should still be on the look out for symptoms.