05 May 2008

Community urged to look our for signs of Meningococcal Disease

NSW Minister for Health Reba Meagher today reminded the community to be alert for the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease as the number of cases generally increases in the lead up to winter and spring.

Ms Meagher said although meningococcal disease is rare, it is extremely serious and can be fatal.

"I urge young people, especially those under the age of 25 and parents of young children, to make sure they have received the meningococcal C vaccine that protects against one of the strains of this serious disease," Ms Meagher said.

"Typically we see a trend in meningococcal disease that peaks in the winter and early spring months.

"Early identification and treatment of the disease is vital and so it is important to remind the community, particularly parents, to remain be vigilant for the signs and symptoms of this potentially deadly disease."

The classic symptoms can include:

• a blotchy purple-red rash
• high fever
• headache
• neck stiffness
• sensitivity to bright lights
• nausea and vomiting
• drowsiness

Professor Robert Booy of the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance said the first symptoms of meningococcal disease are often vague and all of the symptoms might not be present.

"The first signs might include pain in the legs, cold hands and feet and abnormal skin colour. Babies with the infection can be irritable and very hot, they may not feed properly and they may have an abnormal cry," Professor Booy said.

Professor Booy said the vaccine was effective against the meningococcal C strain of the disease but there is currently no vaccine for the meningococcal B strain.

"That means young people who have had the meningococcal C vaccine should still be on the look out for symptoms," Prof Booy said.

"Most cases of meningococcal disease are seen in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults, although people of any age can be infected. Early detection and treatment can, in the majority of cases, result in full recovery."

The meningococcal C vaccine is recommended for all babies at 12 months of age and currently in NSW, free vaccine is provided for unvaccinated people up to 25 years of age.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au