WHAT IS MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE?
* Meningococcal disease is an acute bacterial infection that causes septicaemia (blood poisoning) and/or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord)
* It is a medical emergency that can kill within hours if not recognised and treated promptly
* 10 per cent of patients die and around 20 per cent will have permanent disabilities - ranging from sight and hearing problems and loss of fingers or toes
WHO'S AT RISK?
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* Babies, children and young adults are most at risk
* Two thirds of cases are children up to the age of 5 years due to their immature immune systems
* Teenagers and young adults from 15 to 24 years are also at higher risk because of their social lifestyles
* Winter and early spring are higher risk times
HOW IS IT SPREAD?
* Meningococcal bacteria is transmitted through mucus via sneezing, coughing, kissing and sharing of food or drinks
* About 20 per cent of people will be carrying these bacteria at any one time without ever becoming ill
* Daycare centres, school camps, parties and nightclubs make it easier for the bacteria to spread
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS?
* A high fever is usually one of the symptoms, and people are advised not to wait for a purple rash to appear before seeking treatment
* Babies will refuse to feed, cry, become floppy and can arch their body or neck
Common symptoms include:
* Fever (which may not go down with medication)
* Nausea or vomiting
* Lack of energy, tiredness or drowsiness
* Confusion or disorientation
* Dizziness
* Irritability or agitation
* Sore throat
Meningitis Only Symptoms:
* Severe headache
* Stiff neck
* Sensitivity to light
* A rash
Septicaemia Only Symptoms:
* Fever with cold hands and feet
* Muscle or joint pain
* Pain in chest or abdomen
* Pale, grey or blotchy skin
* Rapid breathing
* Diarrhoea
* Rash may start off as a spot, scratch mark or blister
(Source: http://www.meningococcal.org.au)
