DISEASE AND ILLNESS

The bacteria passes from person to person through secretions from the nose or throat, for example by coughing or sneezing, by kissing, or by sharing eating utensils, toothbrushes or pacifiers (babies’ dummies).

It can be difficult to recognise meningococcal disease because it can look like other illnesses, such as the flu.

Symptoms can develop suddenly and include:

• a high fever
• headache
• sleepiness
• joint and muscle pain
• a stiff neck
• dislike of bright lights
• vomiting
• a rash of reddish-purple pin-prick spots or bruises
• crying and refusal to eat in infants.

If you notice any of the symptoms of meningococcal disease, seek immediate medical advice.

Meningococcal disease can be treated with antibiotics, but early treatment is very important.

Meningococcal disease is notifiable. This means that health professionals or laboratories will inform us when someone has it. Our nurses can then identify and speak to the people you have been in close contact with. Depending on where and when you were in contact with them, they may be offered prophylactic (preventative) antibiotics and/or health advice.  

If you are in the greater Auckland region, and are concerned you have had close contact with someone who has recently had meningococcal disease, call Auckland Regional Public Health Service on (09) 623 4600.

• Fact sheet - Meningococcal disease PDF (ARPHS)
• Poster - Meningitis is serious PDF (Ministry of Health)
• Pamphlet - Meningococcal disease: know the symptoms PDF (HealthEd)

Information in other languages

• Pamphlet - Meningococcal disease: know the symptoms PDF (HealthEd)

Samoan  Te Reo Māori Tongan

• Meningococcal disease (including meningitis) (Ministry of Health)
• Meningococcal disease (Health Navigator)
• Meningococcal disease (The Immunisation Advisory Centre)
• Meningococcal disease (Kidshealth)
• Meningitis (Plunket)