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Sydney, Australia: High profile Olympians are joining forces with health experts and survivors, warning Australian families and young adults to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of a meningococcal infection and to act quickly if infection is suspected.
With peak season underway, medical experts want parents of young children (aged 0-4) and young adults (aged 15-19) in particular[i], to pay attention to early flu-like symptoms that may signal the onset of meningococcal infection. These are the age groups with the highest risk of disease, and while most people survive, meningococcal disease can prove fatal in up to 10% of cases within 24-48 hours.[ii] [iii]
Already this year, 56 cases of the potentially devastating bacterial infection have been recorded across Australia, with the majority in New South Wales and Queensland.[iv] v In the past two years, annual case numbers have climbed to just over 130 nationally.
General practitioner and father-of-three Dr Sam Hay says: "Cases of meningococcal disease typically occur in winter and early spring; however, it can strike at any time of year. The bacteria are spread through close contact - tiny droplets from the nose and throat - so coughing, sneezing, living in close quarters, or kissing can all increase the risk. Certain lifestyle behaviours, such as smoking or vaping, can also increase risk."
23-year-old apprentice Jacob Blackwell from NSW Central Coast was a sports-mad tradesman living his best life when he suddenly developed meningococcal disease two years ago. Jacob's ordeal began when he started slurring his words and stumbling – before being found unresponsive in his share flat. While Jacob survived after spending 230 days in hospital and 22 of those in intensive care, he has been left with life-long physical complications and is now determined to educate others.
He says: "As a meningococcal survivor, I know how quickly this infection can take hold and the devastating impact it can have. I didn't have a rash – my main symptoms were confusion and delirium."
"People often think of meningococcal as a disease affecting babies, but I was a healthy young adult. I had everything going for me and my life has been seriously impacted. My recovery hasn't been easy, but getting back in the pool is a huge step forward to rebuilding my strength, confidence and mental wellbeing.
"I want to move forward, and I also want my experience to help educate others. I want people to know about meningococcal and recognise the early signs of this illness so they can act quickly."
Australian Paralympian Jay Dohnt says meningococcal disease also changed his life. He had both legs amputated below the knee after contracting the infection as a 13-year-old. He went on to swim for his country and has now embarked upon a social work career. He is committed to inspiring other survivors but also wants Australians to understand more about the infection.
Jay says: "It's a devastating disease, and I know that first-hand. The risk of death is real, and the risk of disability is real."
Meningitis Centre Australia CEO Karen Quick says meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, with some people becoming critically ill within 24 hours. While the rash is the most commonly known symptom of the disease - it is often the last symptom to appear or doesn't appear at all; however, other symptoms like fever, headache and vomiting may signal a meningococcal infection.
