Te Whatu Ora is warning Kiwis to be vigilant about symptoms of meningococcal disease after a person with the illness died in Te Whanganui a Tara/Wellington recently.
These include:
- Fever/high temperature
- Cold hands and feet, despite fever
- Vomiting
- Muscle and joint pain.
Dr Craig Thornly, medical officer of health for Te Whatu Ora, said his condolences are with the family.
"Out of respect to them we will not be releasing any further information on this death," he added.
Te Whatu Ora Wellington has carried out contact tracing to find any potential exposures and said there's no further risk to the community.
Patients with meningococcal disease normally have a rapid onset of symptoms.
If it spreads to the brain (meningitis), it can cause additional symptoms, including:
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Drowsiness
- Unresponsiveness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- A red or purple rash (sometimes).
According to Te Whatu Ora, household contacts of positive cases are the most at risk for contracting the disease.
An 18-year-old Christchurch student was hospitalised in March after contracting the disease.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
The bacteria Neisseria meningitidis causes meningococcal disease and can be spread through coughing, sneezing, and kissing.
Up to 15 percent of people carry N. meningitidis in their nose and throat, but without getting sick.
These bacteria cause disease only in some people, which has baffled scientists.
VACCINES
Tamariki under one year old can get a free meningococcal B vaccine, however those under five who missed out (during the COVID-19 pandemic) can still get a free vaccine until September 2025.
It's also free for rangatahi aged 13-25 who are about to move into their first year of close-living quarters, including university residences, boarding schools, prison, or military barracks.
"I would strongly encourage those who are eligible to get their vaccinations for the extra protection," said Dr Thornley.
If you're concerned you might have meningococcal disease, call your doctor or Healthline (0800 611 116) and state your symptoms.
