Preschool-aged child diagnosed with meningococcal

Close contacts of a preschool-aged child have been advised to seek treatment for a rare, potentially life-threatening disease.

Close contacts of a preschool-aged child from Tasmania have been advised to take antibiotics to help prevent the spread of meningococcal.

Tasmania’s Public Health deputy director, Fay Johnston, said the child, who attends Ulverstone Child Care Centre, was diagnosed with the disease late Friday.

They remain in a stable condition the Royal Hobart Hospital.

“Close contacts have been advised to have antibiotic treatment to clear any meningococcal bacteria they might be carrying,” Dr Johnston said in a statement.

“The chance of a close contact also developing the disease is very low.”

She said Public Health Services worked over the weekend to provide information and advice to the family and other close contacts, which include several staff and children who attend the centre.

All parents whose children attend the child care were sent an information sheet and have been advised their children can continue attending the facility as well as visit other places.

The strain of the meningococcal bacteria is yet to be identified.

This is the third case of the disease in the state this year but Dr Johnston said there was no increased risk to the wider community.

For more information, phone Tasmania’s Public Health hotline on 1800 671 738.