As tens of thousands of teenagers gear up for Schoolies celebrations, health experts are urging revellers to stay alert to the signs of a potentially deadly infection that can progress in hours.
More than 100 cases of meningococcal disease, a fast-moving bacterial infection, have been recorded in Australia this year, with teenagers aged 15 to 19 among the highest-risk groups.
Queensland has recorded 22 cases so far, making it a hotspot for the infection.
The disease, which spreads through close contact, can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) or septicaemia (blood poisoning).
In rare instances, it can be fatal within 24 to 48 hours. Across all age groups, up to 10 per cent of cases prove fatal, while one in five survivors may suffer permanent disabilities, including brain injury or limb loss.
Gold Coast University Hospital infectious disease specialist Dr Peter Simos emphasised the importance of urgent medical attention.
“Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, and every second without treatment risks irreversible damage,” Dr Simos said.
“The concern during Schoolies is that teens may dismiss early flu-like symptoms. I encourage anyone feeling unwell, even if in doubt, to seek medical help. Don’t leave it too late.”
Early signs of the infection can be subtle and easily mistaken for a common illness or a hangover. They include vomiting, sensitivity to light, headache, confusion, drowsiness, loss of appetite, fever, stiff neck, joint pain, nausea and fatigue.
A rash is one of the most recognised symptoms, but it can appear late or not at all. Babies may emit high-pitched crying.
An Australian study of more than 24,000 students found that cigarette smoking nearly doubles the likelihood of carrying the bacteria, while attending pubs or clubs and kissing also increases the chances of transmission.
The bacteria often peak in 19-year-olds, with as many as one in four carrying it, compared to just one in 20 infants.
With the high-density, social environment of Schoolies, experts warn that rapid recognition and action could be the difference between life and death.
