Perth student Alexander Philogene, 21, dies hours after developing meningococcal B symptoms on flight
Australians have been warned against a severe strain of meningococcal B circulating in Europe after a Perth man died from the deadly disease while on university exchange.
Alexander "Zander" Philogene – the nephew of prominent Adelaide chef Chris Jarmer – had been studying in Vienna and began developing symptoms while on a flight from Portugal earlier this month.
The 21-year-old was dead within just a few hours.
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Alexander Philogene, 21, pictured with his uncle Chris Jarmer. Instagram/@chrisjarmer
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It is understood Philogene had developed a headache and a rash shortly before his death, which are symptoms of the aggressive strain of meningococcal B.
Philogene has been described as a "truly kind and beautiful soul who meant so much to so many" in an online fundraiser started on behalf of his family.
His uncle also took to Instagram to remember the young university student after his death on April 14.
"We are all so deeply devastated over the tragic loss of our dear nephew and my godson," Jarmer wrote.
"We will miss you forever, Zander."
The fundraiser said Philogene has "left an indescribable void in the lives of all who knew and loved him".
"Our entire community is heartbroken for the Philogene family, and so many of us are feeling helpless – wishing we could take even a small part of this pain away."
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Initial symptoms of the deadly disease can progress to death in as little as a few hours. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Australians travelling to Europe have been warned to check their immunisations are up to date and to be aware of the symptoms of Meningococcal B.
The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned of an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent, England last month, which saw 20 cases and two deaths by March 18.
South Australia Health said four people have contracted the disease in the state in 2026, including an 86-year-old Adelaide woman who remains in a stable condition in hospital.
"It is important to seek urgent medical attention if any symptoms and/or signs of meningococcal disease develop," SA Health said.
Initial symptoms of the deadly disease can progress to death in as little as a few hours.
A spokesperson for the Meningitis Centre Australia said Philogene experienced "two of the signs and symptoms of this fast-moving and life-threatening disease".
Other symptoms can include nausea, neck stiffness, mottled skin and confusion.
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go to his family and friends at this tragic time," the centre said.
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