An Otago Polytechnic student is receiving care at Dunedin Hospital. Photo: RNZ / Delphine Herbert
A second case of meningococcal disease has been reported in the Dunedin student community, Health New Zealand says.
On Tuesday, the University of Otago confirmed a case of the disease within its student community.
National Public Health Service medical officer of health Dr John Eastwood said close contacts had been identified and offered antibiotic and vaccination protection.
The first case was an Otago Polytechnic student who was a resident at Te Pā Tauira. They tested positive for the disease and have been receiving care at Dunedin Hospital since last Saturday.
The disease is caused by a bacterial infection and can lead to death or permanent disability including deafness.
"The National Public Health Service has worked closely with the tertiary education facilities the cases attend and determined that the risk of meningococcal disease in the community or among other students and staff remains low, as the infection is only passed on when people have close or prolonged contact with a case," Eastwood said.
The Meningitis Foundation chair Gerard Rushton said it was critical the student community were aware of the risks and avoided sharing drinks and vapes, and monitored closely for any symptoms which could be similar to the common cold.
They included a stiff and sore neck, sensitivity to light, a severe headache, aching sore joints, and vomiting.
Anyone exhibiting symptoms should seek medical advice, Rushton said.
"Don't second-guess this disease, it can kill within 24 hours."
He also encouraged people to ensure they were vaccinated.
The MenACWY and MenB vaccines are free for ages 13 to 25 years old in their first year of close living situations including boarding school hostels, university halls and prisons.
Rushton advocated for the vaccines to be available more widely, saying students who were not living in halls should also be eligible for a free vaccine.
Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold hands and feet or limb pain
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Confusion
- A rash that does not fade when pressed.
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