Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Meningitis case diagnosed in MidCentral DHB area
A case of meningococcal disease has been diagnosed in the MidCentral DHB area, and the person is being treated at the Palmerston North Hospital.
Medical Officer of Health Dr Rob Weir said people who may have been in contact with the case were being followed up. Close contacts were being offered antibiotics.
“This is standard management to minimise the risk of spread in the community,” Weir said.
It would be some time before we would know if the case was the MenW strain, currently affecting Northland, Weir said.
“This is the fourth case for the year in the MidCentral DHB area – the first three were not serogroup W.”
Weir said meningococcal disease was caused when bacteria living in the nose or throat entered the bloodstream. This can cause meningitis or blood poisoning.
“The bug is spread through close contact, such as living in the same household.
“You can help stop meningococcal disease from spreading by covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Good hand washing is also very important.
“Meningococcal vaccination is recommended for people who have had or are having their spleen removed. Vaccination is also recommended for young people moving to hostels, military recruits and people with an increased risk of invasive disease (including people with sickle cell anaemia or HIV infection).”
Meningococcal disease can be difficult to diagnose because it can look like other illnesses such as the flu. It has a range of symptoms including fever, headache, dislike of light, vomiting, a rash that does not fade when pressed, confusion and sleepiness.
Dr Weir said anyone with these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention, as early treatment was extremely important.
People who were concerned or confused about symptoms should seek medical advice straightaway.
Healthline can also be called freephone on 0800 611 116 at any hour of the day or night – even if you have already been seen by a health professional.
If you have seen a doctor and gone home, but are still concerned, don't hesitate to call your doctor again or seek further medical advice.
Gordon Campbell: On The Hikoi Aftermath
NZ Government: PM Marks One Year In Government
Helen Clark Foundation: Helen Clark Foundation Calls For Political Action To Reduce The Prevalence Of Junk Food And Improve Health Outcomes
Justice Committee: Further Decisions About Submissions Process For The Principles Of The Treaty Of Waitangi Bill
Infrastructure New Zealand: Single Agency Needed To Coordinate Climate Adaptation And Recovery
Free Speech Union: Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill Likely To Restrict Access To Information, Polling Shows Most Oppose
Auckland Transport: Driver Safety Screens Now Rolling Out Across Auckland’s Bus Fleet
