Meningococcal case confirmed at Royal Darwin Hospital

AN infant child is in a critical condition at Royal Darwin Hospital after being diagnosed with meningococcal.

The NT’s fifth case of meningococcal this year has been confirmed.

AN infant child is in a critical condition at Royal Darwin Hospital after being diagnosed with meningococcal.

The case has been confirmed as the W strain of the disease, which is the most common strain in the NT

The latest meningococcal infection brings the total number of cases for the NT this year to five, with the last four cases all being the W strain.

None of these cases have been connected, according to the NT Health Department.

“All close contacts of this child have been contacted and provided with clearance antibiotics to prevent further transmission of infection.” said a statement from the Health Department.

Meningococcal can cause death within hours if not recognised and treated in time.

According to Meningococcal Australia, although the majority of victims will recover fully, 10 per cent of those infected will die, and around 20 per cent will have permanent disabilities.

Babies and children up to the age of five account for two thirds of meningococcal cases.

The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has reminded people to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease.

“Symptoms may include fever, drowsiness, headache, vomiting, neck stiffness and the dislike of bright lights,” said CDC acting director Dr Rosalind Webby.

“A widespread rash may develop that can look like red/purple spots or bruises and infants and babies may also refuse food and drink and have a high-pitched cry. If concerned please seek medical advice early.

Meningococcal is a bacterial disease that has five strains (A, B, C, W and Y) and is carried by approximately one in 10 people in the nose and throat.

“Most people who carry this do not get sick, but they are able to spread it to others who may become unwell, Dr Webby said.

Dr Webby said “the best protection against meningococcal was vaccination”.

The meningococcal ACWY vaccine is available free for all people aged one to 19 years in the NT. Outside this age group, anyone aged over six weeks can receive the vaccination by private script from their GP.

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Meningococcal B vaccine is available on the private market for people from six weeks of age with a script from a GP.

Anyone wanting to protect themselves from meningococcal diseases aged over six weeks can receive the meningococcal ACWY or B vaccine.

For further information visit nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/bacterial/meningococcal-disease