Auckland (The NZ Today)
A meningococcal disease case confirmed at Auckland’s Rosmini College has prompted renewed public health reminders about a rare but potentially life-threatening infection that can worsen rapidly if not recognised and treated early.
Health New Zealand has confirmed a student at the North Shore college has been diagnosed with meningococcal disease, with public health teams completing follow-up work including identifying close contacts and providing treatment and support where required.
Officials have also confirmed there was a previous suspected case reported in July. Health authorities are investigating whether there is any link between the two students, but say the risk to the wider school community remains low.
Due to patient privacy, Health New Zealand has not released further details about those affected.
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria that can infect the lining around the brain and spinal cord, known as meningitis, or enter the bloodstream and cause a severe infection.
One of the challenges with the disease is that early symptoms can appear similar to common illnesses such as influenza or a cold. However, people can become seriously unwell within a short period of time, sometimes within hours.
Symptoms can include fever, severe headache, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion and a rapid decline in health. Health experts say people should seek urgent medical advice if someone becomes suddenly very unwell or symptoms worsen quickly.
The latest case comes after the recent death of Waikato young woman Kyla Te Wano Greensill from meningococcal disease. Her family previously said her illness initially appeared to be flu-like, highlighting the difficulty of identifying the infection in its early stages.
Health officials say teenagers and young adults are among the groups where meningococcal disease is more commonly seen.
The meningococcal B vaccine is available free for babies and children under five years old. It is also funded for people aged 13 to 25 during their first year in certain close-living environments, including boarding school hostels, university halls of residence, military facilities, youth justice facilities and prisons.
Health New Zealand says the current Rosmini College response is focused on supporting those who may have been in close contact with the student and reducing any risk of further spread.
Officials are urging families not to panic but to remain aware of symptoms and seek medical advice early if they have concerns.
As per health authorities, while meningococcal disease is uncommon, they continue to stress that early treatment is critical because the infection can progress quickly.
Source: Health New Zealand, RNZ reporting.
