Urgent warning issued as deadly disease strikes for the sixth time

Health officials are raising concerns as a serious illness resurfaces with growing cases this year. 

Though still relatively rare, this disease can have severe consequences if not detected early. 

Awareness and timely action remain crucial as authorities monitor the situation closely.

What’s happening in WA?

A sixth case of the potentially deadly meningococcal disease has been confirmed in Western Australia (WA) this year.

WA Health announced this week that a man has been hospitalised with meningococcal disease—specifically the Type B strain.

This brings the state’s total to six cases so far in 2025, following 13 cases and one death in 2024.

While the numbers may appear small, the consequences can be devastating.

Meningococcal disease can kill between five and ten per cent of those infected, and survivors may face lifelong complications such as hearing loss, limb amputations or brain damage.

The disease is not easily spread—it is not like the common cold or flu.

Meningococcal bacteria are found in droplets from sneezing and coughing, but they do not survive long outside the body and are not spread by saliva.

However, when infection does occur, it can progress rapidly, sometimes proving fatal within just 24 hours.

What are the symptoms?

Early detection is critical. Meningococcal disease can initially resemble other common illnesses but can escalate quickly. Symptoms to watch for include:

• High fever and chills
  
• Severe headache
  
• Neck stiffness
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
• Drowsiness or confusion
  
• Severe muscle and joint pain
  

A distinctive spotty red-purple rash—caused by small bleeding points under the skin—may appear, but not always.

In young children, symptoms can be more subtle: fever, pale or blotchy skin, vomiting, lethargy, poor feeding and sometimes a rash.

WA Health is urging anyone with these symptoms to seek medical attention immediately. The disease is treatable with antibiotics if caught early, but time is critical.

Why is Type B a concern?

Of the recent cases in WA, most have been caused by the Type B strain, which is known to be particularly dangerous.

In April, four cases were recorded in a single week, including two siblings from the same household.

This cluster has reignited debate about the need for broader access to the Type B vaccine.

Currently, the National Immunisation Program provides a free combined vaccine for Types A, C, W and Y to all children at 12 months.

However, the Type B vaccine is only free for Aboriginal children up to 12 months old in WA, despite its higher prevalence in this group.

In other states, such as South Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory, free Type B vaccination programs have been introduced for children and adolescents, with strong results.

South Australia saw a 60 per cent reduction in infant cases and a 73 per cent drop among adolescents after introducing the program in 2018.

For others, the Type B vaccine can cost hundreds of dollars per dose—a significant barrier for many families.

Calls for change

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and other health experts are urging the WA government to close what they call a ‘huge gap in immunisation coverage’.

Dr Ramya Raman, RACGP Western Australia chair, says: ‘We know that this vaccine is safe and effective—it’s the best protection against this deadly disease. Making this vaccine free for kids and at-risk age groups will save lives.’

What can you do?

• Know the symptoms: Familiarise yourself and your family with the warning signs, especially if you have young children or grandchildren.
  
• Act fast: If you or someone you know develops symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
  
• Check your vaccination status: If you are unsure whether you or your loved ones are protected, talk to your GP.

A final word

Meningococcal disease is rare, but its impact can be devastating. The recent cases in WA are a timely reminder to remain alert, know the symptoms and act quickly if you suspect something is wrong.

Vaccination remains the best defence, and there is growing momentum to make it more accessible to all Australians.

Have you or someone you know been affected by meningococcal disease? Do you think the Type B vaccine should be free for all children and at-risk groups?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your voice might help inform others and contribute to meaningful change.

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