Meningococcal case found at Auckland University student apartment

A meningococcal case has been detected in University of Auckland student accommodation.

A university spokesperson confirmed one student had been diagnosed with meningococcal disease and was receiving treatment in hospital.

“The university is working closely with the Auckland Regional Public Health Service to manage the case and identify potential close contacts of the student. This is restricted to three people who share apartment accommodation with the student.

“At this stage, no further cases of meningococcal disease have been confirmed in that group. The risk to the wider University of Auckland community is therefore considered low.”

Te Whatu Ora medical officer of health Dr Felicity Williamson the case had been reported to the National Public Health Service on Saturday.

“The service has since identified the close contacts of the case, who have received a course of preventative antibiotics and information on signs and symptoms to watch for,” she said.

“There have been no other cases associated with this case so far.

“Those who are close contacts of the case have been given specific advice and follow-up.

“Even though the risk is low, all students at the hostel are being given information on meningococcal disease, including signs and symptoms to watch for and when to seek further health care.’

Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but life-threatening bacterial infection that can result in two serious illnesses: meningitis (an infection of the membranes that cover the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). It is passed between people via respiratory droplets and saliva.

Symptoms of meningococcal disease can be difficult to diagnose but can progress quickly. Along with headaches, fever and a sore neck, patients may also present with a rash.

New Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) data shows the number of cases of meningococcal disease among Kiwi teenagers and young adults increased by 88 per cent last year.

Māori youth are among those experiencing the largest increases, with three times as many cases recorded as in the previous year. The figures also show a significant lift in cases among European teens, with rates of infection in males up 67 per cent.

Newborns are offered the meningococcal vaccine as part of their immunisations.

In New Zealand, a free meningococcal vaccine is also available to those aged between 13 and 25, and is particularly encouraged for those entering a boarding school or a university hostel.

“The latest data showing the elevated risk of meningococcal disease to teens is concerning as this cohort tends to be socially active, which can increase the spread of the disease among peer groups,” GSK NZ country medical director Brett Marett said.