Young adult in a critical condition with meningococcal B
A young adult is in a critical condition after being diagnosed with invasive meningococcal disease.
Authorities said the patient is on life support at a hospital in Adelaide.
Abundant meningococci bacteria observed, with a notably absence of white blood cells in the spinal fluid from a critically ill meningitis patient. Getty
South Australia’s health department has identified multiple people who have come into contact with the case.
Seven people have been identified and received clearance antibiotics to prevent further transmission.
The young adult has been identified as having the serogroup B meningococcal infection.
This year 22 cases of the disease have been identified in South Australia, compared to 15 cases last year.
There have been zero deaths recorded from the disease in the state.
Meningococcal disease can progress very rapidly and be fatal without immediate medical intervention.
People should seek urgent medical attention if any symptoms or signs of meningococcal disease develop.
Signs of meningococcal disease can include headache, fever, vomiting, neck stiffness and sensitivity to light.
This can quickly progress to confusion and shock.
A skin rash may occur, with tiny red or purple spots that soon spread and enlarge to look like fresh bruises.
Young children may be fretful, difficult to wake and refuse to eat.
They may have leg pain, cold hands and feet, and a high-pitched or moaning cry.
Skin can appear to be pale, blotchy or abnormally coloured.
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