Australia : Warning after two infected with deadly disease

Via The Blacktown Sun :

" TWO cases of the deadly meningococcal disease have been reported at hospitals in western Sydney in the past week.

An infant was in a ‘‘satisfactory condition’’ at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead last week and an adult required intensive care, a spokeswoman for the health department said.

Western Sydney Local Health District practitioners have warned people to be alert for early symptoms of meningococcal disease, as this is the peak season for the disease.

Dr Vicky Sheppeard, who is manager of the Communicable Diseases and Immunisation department, said people with symptoms must seek medical help immediately.

‘‘The community needs to be on the alert and if anyone suspects the disease, they should seek medical advice,’’ she said.

Dr Sheppeard said meningococcal disease is an infection that caused meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and severe blood infection."