Aboriginal people of all ages across selected communities in the Pilbara are eligible for a one-off meningococcal vaccination.

All Aboriginal people living in Port or South Hedland, Roebourne, Karratha and surrounding areas are eligible for the vaccination following a recent cluster of meningococcal across the Pilbara.

WA Country Health Service clinical nurse specialist Jodie Bennett said young children, especially Aboriginal children, and older teenagers are most at risk of developing meningococcal disease.

“We’ve identified four meningococcal C cases since January of this year in the communities of Hedland, Roebourne and Karratha,” she said.

Ms Bennett said while meningococcal was a life-threatening illness, vaccination was the single most effective way to protect yourself.

Meningococcal vaccination clinics will be set up in the Hedland and Karratha areas and the vaccine will also be available from general practitioners and other primary care providers.

The expanded program will run for an initial three-month period until September 27.

SOURCE: The West Australian