No further meningococcal cases in Wanaka

No further meningococcal cases in Wanaka since eradication programme

Public Health South is pleased to report that there have been no further cases of meningococcal disease in Wanaka since the eradication programme was completed at Mt Aspiring College.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Naomi Gough says it is believed that the risk of another case of meningococcal disease at the school linked to the outbreak is now unlikely.

However, she encourages ongoing vigilance, “especially among teenagers and young adults who are at greater risk of the disease simply because of their age and stage of life.”

There has been an increase in meningococcal disease across the Southern district in 2016 with 17 cases reported so far, including seven confirmed cases of the New Zealand Meningococcal B strain. Many of those affected have been between the ages of 15 and 25 years.

Meningococcus is a bacteria that many people carry normally at the back of their throats without causing any illness. Occasionally it goes on to develop meningococcal disease. Research suggests that the bacteria spreads more easily amongst people who have extensive close social contact, such as living in flats, dormitories and overcrowded settings, as well as being exposed to tobacco smoke, having intimate contact and/or attending social gatherings. Many of these activities are common for young people growing up in New Zealand.

“We would like to appeal to all young adults and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease,” Dr Gough says. “Look out for each other, avoid living in overcrowded settings and if something’s not right, act fast.”

A post with tips for young people has been uploaded onto the Southern DHB Facebook page. People are encouraged to share this post with their friends and whānau to start a discussion about what people can do to look after themselves and each other.

ENDS

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