Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can affect all ages but is more common in babies, causing serious illnesses including meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning).

Early symptoms can be similar to the flu but quickly get much worse. Symptoms include:

• high fever
• sleepy, floppy, hard to wake up
• refusing feeds or drinks
• stiff neck
• high pitched cry
• skin rash

Early treatment with antibiotics is very important. If your tamariki appears very ill, especially if there is a rash, ring a doctor, or Healthline 0800 611 116 day or night. In an emergency, call 111. Don’t wait.

Vaccination is free for high risk groups including children with a weakened immune system. Find out more: www.kidshealth.org.nz/meningococcal-disease 

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can affect all ages and leads to meningitis and/or septicaemia.

Early symptoms can be similar to the flu but quickly get much worse. Symptoms include:

• sudden or high fever
• headache
• sleepiness
• joint and muscle pains
• skin rash - like tiny bruises

Early treatment with antibiotics is very important. Don’t wait - get urgent medical attention.

There are two different vaccines that protect for up to 5 years. Both are recommended for young people aged 13 to 25 entering communal accommodation e.g. boarding school, tertiary halls of residence. One is FREE. Both vaccines are free for people with specific higher risk health conditions.

See more: www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/m/meningococcal-disease/