Meningococcal disease
Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious bacterial disease.
About one in every 10 people carry this germ in the nose and throat.
Although most people who 'carry' this germ don't get sick, they are able to spread it to other people who, if infected, may become very unwell very quickly.
There are 5 main strains that cause meningococcal disease - A, B, C, W and Y.
Symptoms
Symptoms of the disease may include:
- fever
- headache
- confusion or drowsiness
- neck stiffness
- joint pains
- rash
- dislike of bright lights
- vomiting.
When diagnosed and treated with antibiotics quickly, most people will make a full recovery. However, in some cases, it can lead to the following:
- hearing loss
- fits
- limb amputation
- renal failure
- skin scarring.
About 8 to 10% of cases may result in death.
Prevention
Meningococcal disease can be prevented by vaccination.
The meningococcal ACWY vaccine is free for:
- babies at 12 months
- young people aged 14 to 19
- people with certain medical conditions (all ages).
If you're not eligible for a free vaccine, you can see your doctor for a private script.
The meningococcal B vaccine is free for:
- Aboriginal children up to the age of 2
- people with certain medical conditions.
Anyone else aged 6 weeks and over who are not eligible for the vaccine can see their GP for a private script.
NT Meningococcal B Vaccination Program
From 1 January 2025, the meningococcal B vaccine will be free for infants under the age of 2, and adolescents aged 15 to 19 years.
It will be part of the:
- childhood immunisation schedule for infants 6 weeks to 12 months
- school-based vaccination program for year 9 students
- catch up vaccination program for children under 2 years and adolescents aged 15 years to 19 years.
Under the catch up program, it will be available from:
- GPs
- pharmacies
- community care centres
- remote health services.
More information
For more information, read the meningococcal disease fact sheet PDF (580.0 KB). You can also call your nearest Centre for Disease Control.
Health professionals can visit the NT Health website for more information.
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