New South Wales health officials warn of meningococcal disease threat after death of 18-year-old girl

A second patient in New South Wales has died from meningococcal disease after attending this year’s music festival. Authorities warn young people to be aware of symptoms.

ABC has confirmed that a teenage girl who attended the Spilded Milk Festival in Canberra on Saturday 26th November was the latest person to die from the infection in the state.

The non-profit Meningitis Center Australia said in a social media post Monday evening that an 18-year-old girl from the South Coast of New South Wales had died in a Canberra hospital.

“At this time, our thoughts are with family and friends,” the post said.

it comes after Sydney man in his 40s dies From illness after attending Byron Bay’s Splendor in Grass Festival in July.

In mid-November, a third man in his 20s also died from the disease.

Health officials say there has been an increase in the number of reported cases in the past few weeks compared to the same period over the past five years.

There were a total of 29 reports this year.

Young people between the ages of 15 and 25 and children under the age of 5 are most likely to get the disease, the majority of whom are infected with meningococcal B strain.

Symptoms include severe, unexplained pain in the hands and feet, severe headaches, and a reddish-purple rash that does not go away when pressed with a glass.

The disease can occur at any time of the year, but is more likely in late winter and early spring.

Early detection and intervention could save someone’s life, said Jeremy McAnulty, executive director of health protection in New South Wales.

“Symptoms of meningococcal disease can appear suddenly and become serious very quickly,” Dr. McAnulty said.

“I urge everyone not to downplay symptoms or assume they have a mild infection when they do occur.

“If you suspect meningococcal disease, seek medical attention immediately rather than waiting for a rash.”

He said vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from disease.

Some meningococcal vaccines are provided free to infants, adolescents, and people of all ages with certain medical conditions.

In New South Wales, the vaccine is distributed in schools in 10th grade.