Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Meningococcal is a serious illness with the number of cases typically peaking in late winter and early spring. If you suspect meningococcal disease please present to your doctor or emergency department as soon as possible.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious infection caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It can lead to two main types of illness:
- Meningitis – inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord
- Septicaemia (blood poisoning) – a severe infection in the bloodstream
What are the symptoms?
Early symptoms can be hard to recognise, as they can resemble common illnesses like colds or flu. However, the disease can progress rapidly, so it’s important to seek urgent medical help if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reduced consciousness
- Reduced appetite
- Feeling generally unwell and tired
- Sensitivity to light
- Cold hands and feet, limb pain, or rapid breathing
- A purplish or blotchy rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
Symptoms in Infants and Young Children
- being irritable or unsettled
- refusal to eat
- difficulty waking
- tiredness or floppiness
- high pitched crying
- grunting or moaning
- pale or blotchy skin
- fits (convulsions).
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience all symptoms, and the rash can be a late sign of illness. If you or someone you know is seriously unwell or symptoms worsen quickly, call Triple Zero – 000 or seek in-person care and go to the nearest hospital immediately.
Who is at a higher risk?
Meningococcal disease can affect anyone, however certain groups are at a higher risk:
- infants and young children, particularly those aged under 5 years
- adolescents and young adults, particularly those aged 15 to 24 years
- people who are not vaccinated against meningococcal disease
- people who smoke
- people with recent respiratory tract infections
- people without a working spleen or with a weakened immune system
- close contacts of someone with meningococcal disease, such as household members and intimate partners
- travellers to countries with high rates of meningococcal disease
- laboratory workers who may handle meningococcal bacteria.
How is meningococcal disease treated?
Meningococcal disease is a medical emergency. If it is suspected, doctors will start treatment straight away, often before test results are available.
- Antibiotics are given as soon as possible, usually through a vein (intravenously) to fight the bacteria.
- Supportive care such as fluids, oxygen, or medications to support blood pressure may be required.
- In severe cases, patients may need intensive care.
Early treatment greatly improves the chances of survival and reduces the risk of serious complications.
How many cases of meningococcal disease occur in Australia?
In 2024 there were more than 80 cases of meningococcal infection recorded in Australia.
How is meningococcal disease spread?
Some people (around 10%) have meningococcal bacteria living naturally in their nose and throat. These individuals are known as “carriers”. Bacteria is spread through close person-to-person contact with infected secretions from the back of the nose and throat. Some people carry the bacteria in their nose and throat without developing illness and can spread it to others.1
Can I be vaccinated against meningococcal disease?
Yes. Several vaccines are available in Australia. However, even if you are vaccinated, it is important for all people to be alert for the symptoms:
- MenACWY vaccine protects against four strains: A, C, W, and Y.
- MenB vaccine protects against the B strain.
References
1 https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/meningococcal-disease