An 18-year-old man is being treated at Wagga Base Hospital for confirmed Meningococcal disease.
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Director of public health unit Tracey Oakman, from the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, said close contacts of the man have been offered clearance anitbiotics and other low-level contacts will be provided information on the disease.
"Meningococcal can be a very serious illness," said Mrs Oakman.
"People should be aware of the symptoms and see early medical care.
"Early identification and treatment of the disease is vital and in most cases the infection is effectively treated with antibiotics."
Symptoms of meningococcal disease may include some of the following:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Severe headache
- Weakness, drowsiness, confusion or coma
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dislike of bright lights
- Rash of red-purple spots
- A stiff neck
Mrs Oakman said anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their General Practitioner and or present at their local hospital Emergency Department.
Vaccination for meningococcal disease, types A, C, W and Y, is available on the National Immunisation Program for infants at 12 months of age and adolescents in year 10.
Any adolescents aged 15 to 19 years who miss the vaccine in school are eligible for a free vaccine from their GP.
This year, NSW and Commonwealth Governments invested $130 million in immunisation programs.