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Tasmanians are reminded that meningococcal disease still occurs in Tasmania, following the diagnosis of the State’s first case this year.
A female adult from the North-West of the State was diagnosed with meningococcal disease last week and is now recovering at home after being treated in hospital.
Close contacts of the case were identified to minimise the risk of further infections.
Acting Director of Public Health Dr Scott McKeown, said this was a timely reminder that meningococcal disease still occurs and the importance of vaccination against the disease.
“Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious infection that can develop quickly and can be fatal,” said Dr McKeown.
“Detecting and treating cases quickly can save lives, which means anyone with suspected meningococcal infection needs to seek emergency medical care immediately.
“The symptoms of meningococcal disease can include fever, severe headache, confusion, severe muscle pain, and rash. People with meningococcal disease can go from feeling well to being extremely ill very quickly.
“Babies and infants may not have these symptoms but can be unsettled or drowsy, pale or blotchy, floppy, and not feeding.”
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis.
Approximately one in 10 people can have meningococcal bacteria living naturally in the back of their nose and throat. However, in a small number of people, serious strains of the bacteria can invade the body and cause illness, known as invasive meningococcal disease.
“Since the widespread meningococcal ACWY vaccination program in 2018, there has been a reduction in invasive meningococcal disease in Tasmania,” said Dr McKeown.
Vaccination against the meningococcal A, C, W and Y strains is routinely provided free as part of the National Immunisation Program for children aged 12 months and as part of the school-based program for students in year 10.
A vaccine is available to protect against the meningococcal B strain for children from 6 weeks of age. This vaccine is free for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants. Others wishing to protect themselves or their family against meningococcal B can purchase the vaccine through their General Practitioner with a private script.
Meningococcal disease is more common during winter and spring but can occur at any time in any place and affect people of any age.
More information about meningococcal disease is available at: www.health.tas.gov.au/publications/meningococcal-disease