NSW Health has called on the community to be alert for symptoms of meningococcal disease and to act immediately if they appear after it.
It said meningococcal disease is a rare, but serious and sometimes fatal infection and there have been three notifications recently.
Sadly, NSW Health said, a person in their fifties from Sydney has died from meningococcal disease and further two cases of the disease have been detected in a person in their late teens who was living in Sydney, and a person in their sixties from the Central Coast.
“Both individuals are recovering. None of these cases are believed to be linked.”
According to NSW Health, so far this year there have been 19 cases of meningococcal disease reported, the majority of cases due to the meningococcal B strain of the infection.
Director of Communicable Diseases with NSW Health, Dr Christine Selvey, said meningococcal disease was a rare disease with babies, toddlers, adolescents, and young adults at the highest risk.
He said that while vaccination of the age groups reduced the number of infections each year, the vaccines do not protect against all strains of meningococcal bacteria and people of all ages can be infected. All people should be aware of symptoms so they can act fast.
“Meningococcal disease can be very serious, but early treatment is life-saving so it is important that symptoms are recognised early,” Dr Selvey said.
“We are urging the NSW community to be vigilant for symptoms, even if they have been vaccinated, and to seek medical assistance early if they are concerned.”
He said meningococcal disease can be fatal within hours if left untreated so knowing the symptoms could help prevent premature death or life-long disability.
They include: Sudden onset of fever; Headache; Neck stiffness; Tiredness; Joint or limb pain; Dislike of bright lights; Nausea and vomiting; high-pitched crying in babies; and a rash of red-purple spots or bruises which may appear after the other symptoms or late in the disease progression.
“If symptoms rapidly worsen call Triple Zero (000) or go straight to your nearest emergency department, do not delay,” Dr Selvey said.
He said children under five and 15-to-25 year-olds are at the greatest risk of contracting the disease which is why babies and adolescents should be vaccinated against meningococcal disease.
He said that under the National Immunisation Program, the meningococcal vaccine (Men ACWY) is provided free for babies at 12 months, adolescents, and people of all ages with certain medical conditions.
“In NSW, the adolescent dose is delivered through the school vaccination program in Year 10.” Dr Selvey said.
More information on the vaccination or symptoms, transmission, risks and treatment of the disease can be obtained on this PS News link.
