Elderly man with suspected meningococcal disease

3 April 2010

A man is in a serious but stable condition in a Hunter hospital with suspected meningococcal disease.
If confirmed, this will be the fourth case in the Hunter New England Health region this year.
The man’s close contacts have been provided with clearance antibiotics. There are no known links between this case and any previous cases.
In 2009 there were 14 cases of meningococcal disease in the Hunter New England Health region. There were eight cases in 2008 and 12 in 2007.
Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim said that this is an important reminder that the community should remain on the alert for the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease across all ages.
“Although most cases of meningococcal disease are seen in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults, people of any age can be infected,” he said.
"The community needs to remain on the alert for the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease and if anyone suspects meningococcal disease, they should seek medical attention immediately.”
Meningococcal disease is serious and up to 10 per cent of patients Australia-wide can die. The first symptoms of meningococcal disease may include pain in the legs, cold hands and feet and abnormal skin colour.
Later symptoms may include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights, nausea and vomiting, a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises and drowsiness. Babies with the infection can be irritable, not feed properly and have an abnormal cry.
"Meningococcal infection does not spread easily. It is spread by secretions from the nose and throat of a person who is carrying it and close and prolonged contact is needed to pass it on. It does not appear to be spread through saliva or by sharing drinks, food or cigarettes," Dr Durrheim said.
He stressed that while meningococcal disease could be serious, in most cases, early detection and treatment resulted in a complete recovery.
Where suspected or confirmed meningococcal disease has been diagnosed, public health officials will arrange for information and clearance antibiotics to be provided to close contacts, like the other members of the person's household. The purpose of clearance antibiotics is to eradicate any meningococcal bacteria the contacts may be carrying to prevent further transmission of the disease.

HNE-2214

Contact: Carisa Green

Phone: 0428 106 183