(Graphic: Meningococcal Australia)
August 6, 2015
Meningococcal Australia is calling on parents and the community to know the facts about this deadly disease – and to watch for the signs, especially during the peak season from July to September.
The support group said a survey of 2000 Australian parents revealed that while nearly all had heard of meningococcal disease, a third were unaware there were multiple strains of the bacteria which can cause infection.
And while nearly all could identify the combination of signs and symptoms that could indicate meningococcal disease, 23 per cent would not seek medical attention early enough.
In addition, 11 per cent said their child did not receive the vaccine on the National Immunisation Program and a further 15 per cent were unsure if their child had or not.
Meningococcal disease survivor Eliza Ault-Connell, director of Meningococcal Australia, said that while most people were now aware of meningococcal disease, there were still dangerous misconceptions in the community.
“We want parents to understand that while the free vaccine on the National Immunisation Program protects against the C strain, there are several other strains of bacteria in Australia which can cause meningococcal disease,” she said.
“It is critical that parents don’t become complacent, thinking their child is fully protected against the disease, but take the time to understand the signs and symptoms and know what to do if they ever suspect meningococcal disease.”
There were between 140 to 265 cases of meningococcal disease reported in Australia each year between 2008-2013.
In 2013, 33 per cent of cases occurred in the 0-4 age group and 18 per cent in the 15-19 age group.
The peak season is from July to September when nearly double the number of cases are reported compared with January to March.
Between 5-10 per cent of people who contract meningococcal disease will not survive.
About 20 per cent of survivors are left with permanent disabilities that range from learning difficulties, sight/hearing problems, loss of fingers, toes and limbs, to scarring from skin grafts.
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Myths and Facts
Five key myths that Meningococcal Australia wants to dispel this peak season:
Myth 1: Only children get meningococcal disease
Fact: While those aged 0-4 years and 15-19 years are at a higher risk (accounting for over half of all cases), meningococcal disease can strike at ANY age. So it’s important that all adults know the signs and symptoms, check vaccinations are up to date and act quickly if meningococcal disease is suspected.
Myth 2: My child has had the free meningococcal vaccination on the National Immunisation program and so is fully protected against the disease.
Fact: The vaccine on the National Immunisation Program given for free at 12 months only protects against the C strain, one of several strains reported each year in Australia. While it is a relatively rare disease, Australians should take the time to understand the signs and symptoms and what to do should they ever suspect meningococcal disease.
Myth 3: One of the sure symptoms is a stiff neck and sensitivity to light.
Fact: Early symptoms can vary considerably, as meningococcal disease can present as meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or septicaemia (infection of the blood), or a combination of both. A stiff neck relates only to meningitis, and this may not be present.
Also watch out for anyone with several of the following symptoms: high fever, headache, fatigue or drowsiness, vomiting or diarrhoea, cold hands and feet, cold shivers, pain in the joints or limbs, pale skin, a red pinprick rash. In babies, there could be a high pitched moaning cry, blank staring expression, floppiness or lethargy.
Myth 4: The main symptom to look out for is the tell-tale blotchy purple rash.
Fact: A purple rash does not always appear, and if it does it may be too late to stop the rapid progression of the disease. Be aware of any early signs of a rash such as a pinprick rash, or red spots anywhere on the body. Meningococcal disease is a medical emergency and can lead to death in less than 24 hours – so early diagnosis and treatment is vital.
Myth 5: Meningococcal disease is caused by a virus.
Fact: Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria (not by a virus), and so is not as easily transmitted. It can be spread in respiratory droplets by activities such as sneezing, coughing and intimate kissing, but close contact is usually required. Simple steps such as regular hand washing and covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing can all help stop the spread of the disease.
