Meningococcal Disease: Know the Signs, Protect Your Whaanau
Meningococcal disease is a serious infection that can make people very sick, very quickly. While it is rare, it can lead to life-threatening illnesses and serious long-term health problems if not treated early.
Knowing the signs and symptoms, understanding who is most at risk, and keeping up to date with immunisations can help protect you and your whaanau.
What is Meningococcal Disease?
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These bacteria can sometimes enter the body and cause serious infections such as:
Meningitis – an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord.
Septicaemia – a serious blood infection.
Without urgent treatment, meningococcal disease can cause permanent disabilities, hearing loss, or even death
Who Is Most at Risk?
Meningococcal disease can affect people of any age, but some groups are at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell:
Babies
Tamariki under 5 years old
Rangatahi and young adults aged 13 to 25 years
People with other respiratory illnesses, such as the flu
People exposed to cigarette smoke or vaping
People with weakened immune systems
Know the Signs and Symptoms
Early symptoms can look like a cold or the flu, but meningococcal disease can become serious within hours.
In babies and young children:
Fever (over 38°C)
Crying or being unsettled
Sleepiness or difficulty waking up
Refusing feeds or drinks
Vomiting
Stiff neck
Sensitivity to bright lights
A rash with red, purple, or bruise-like spots
In older children and adults:
Fever (over 38°C)
Severe headache
Nausea and vomiting
Drowsiness or confusion
Muscle aches and joint pain
Stiff neck
Sensitivity to bright lights
A rash with red, purple, or bruise-like spots
If you or someone in your whaanau develops these symptoms or becomes suddenly unwell, seek medical help immediately. Early treatment can save lives.
How Does Meningococcal Disease Spread?
Meningococcal bacteria can live in the back of the nose and throat without causing illness. Many people carry the bacteria and never become sick.
The bacteria are spread through close contact, including:
Living in the same household
Intimate kissing
Being regularly exposed to coughs or sneezes from an infected person
People living closely together, such as students in halls of residence or boarding schools, may have a higher risk of exposure.
Protecting Your Whaanau
There are simple steps you can take to help reduce the risk of meningococcal disease:
Get Immunised
Immunisation is one of the best ways to protect against several strains of meningococcal bacteria.
Free meningococcal vaccinations are available for many people, including:
All tamariki under 5 years old
Young people aged 13 to 25 years in their first year living in close-contact accommodation
Practice Good Hygiene
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wash and dry hands regularly
Use hand sanitiser when needed
Keep Homes Smoke-Free and Vape-Free
Avoiding cigarette smoke and vaping can help reduce risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is meningococcal disease common?
Meningococcal disease is rare, but when it occurs it can become very serious very quickly. That is why it is important to know the symptoms and seek medical help early.
Can meningococcal disease be treated?
Yes. Meningococcal disease is treated with antibiotics, usually in hospital. Early treatment gives the best chance of recovery and can help prevent serious complications.
Can vaccinated people still get meningococcal disease?
Vaccination offers important protection against several types of meningococcal bacteria. However, no vaccine protects against every strain, so it is still important to know the symptoms and seek medical advice if you become unwell.
When should I seek medical help?
Seek urgent medical attention if you or a member of your whaanau develops symptoms of meningococcal disease, especially if symptoms are worsening quickly.
In an emergency, call 111. You can also contact your GP, hauora provider, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.
How can I protect my tamariki?
Keeping immunisations up to date, practising good hygiene, and knowing the warning signs are some of the best ways to protect tamariki and your wider whaanau.
Need to Book an Immunisation?
Protecting your whaanau starts with prevention.
Contact a Raukura Nurse to book a meningococcal immunisation appointment. If you have any concerns about symptoms or your family's risk, please speak with your GP, hauora provider, or healthcare professional for advice.
Book today and help keep your whaanau safe. 💙💚
