Tasmania has recorded its first case of meningococcal disease for the year, prompting health authorities to remind locals of the ongoing risk and the importance of vaccination.
The female adult from the state’s north-west was diagnosed last week and is now recovering at home after receiving hospital treatment.
Acting Director of Public Health Scott McKeown said the case serves as a “timely reminder” that the disease can strike at any time.
“Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious infection that can develop quickly and can be fatal,” he said.
“Detecting and treating cases quickly can save lives, which means anyone with suspected meningococcal infection needs to seek emergency medical care immediately.”
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis, which can be carried harmlessly in the back of the nose and throat by around one in 10 people.
However, in some 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,” McKeown said.
“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.”
