Meningococcal Disease is a rare bacterial disease that can cause death within minutes if not recognised and treated immediately.

Meningococcal Awareness Day - Friday 2 Sept - seeks to bring this dangerous disease into the spotlight.

Organisers are asking people to stop using their right arm for 15 minutes in support of the victims of this deadly disease.

Meningococcal Disease has claimed the limbs and lives of so many Australians.

MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE

· Australia has seen declines in the incidence of Meningococcal since the Men C vaccine was introduced. However, there are still around 250 - 300 cases per year.

· Men B makes up 80-90% of all cases.

· Most cases occur in under 5s and in 20-25 year-olds

· NSW has most cases, followed by Queensland and Victoria.

· Cases occur all year round but most commonly in Winter

· Death rate continues to improve - now about 5%

How do you catch meningococcal disease?

Risk factors are close contact e.g. kissing n cuddles, prior viral respiratory infection, crowding, exposure to smokers.

· The Men C vaccine is very effective

· The Men B vaccine may become available in next two years.