Meningococcal: What You Need to Know
Every Second Counts.
What is Meningococcal
Meningitis means inflammation of the membranes ‘meninges’ which is the lining of the brain and spine. Meningococcal is a life-threatening disease and is the term used to describe two major illnesses Meningitis and Septicaemia caused by Meningococcal bacteria that enters the body.
The Facts
1 in 10 people
who contract Meningitis, Meningococcal and Pneumococcal will die.
1 in 4 survivors
will have disabilities like blindness, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, seizures, deafness, intellectual disabilities, limb loss, psychological trauma and skin scarring.
Know
the signs and symptoms.
ACT
Immediately! Symptoms can appear fast and progress quickly, trust your instincts. Go to hospital. Every second counts.
VAX
Full vaccination is the most effective protection against Meningococcal.
Learn about Oliver’s and others stories
What is Meningococcal?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
How is Meningococcal spread?
The bacteria are spread through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, or sharing food and drinks. Also vapes, lipsticks, cigarettes, and deep kissing are other ways of increasing the spread.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can get Meningococcal, but some groups are at higher risk:
- Babies and young children
- Teenagers and young adults
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies and teens
- People with certain medical conditions that weaken the immune system
What are the five Main types of Meningococcal?
The main types are A, C, W, Y and B.
Are there vaccines / needles available?
Yes. There are two different types of needles you need.
- Meningococcal ACWY needle: Protects against types A, C, W, and Y.
- Meningococcal B needle: Protects against type B.
Are the vaccines/needles FREE?
Yes — the Meningococcal ACWY needle (protects against types A, C, W, and Y) is free.
No — the Meningococcal B needle (protects against type B) isn’t free in some states like Western Australia.
However, it is free in some states so Click on the map to find out if yours is one of them!
Meningococcal B
Learn more about Meningococcal B >Order your free sign and symptoms magnet
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FAQs
What is Meningococcal?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
How many types of meningococcal are there in Australia?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
Are there vaccines to protect against meningococcal?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
Do I need both vaccines to be fully protected?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
What is Meningococcal?
Meningococcal is a deadly disease that can strike anyone, anywhere, anytime — and may cause death or permanent disability in under 24 hours.
