Meningococcal, streptococcus cases rise in NSW, authorities ask community to look out for symptoms

NSW Health recorded more cases of meningococcal disease (IMD) and invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) than normal in recent weeks.

NSW Executive director of health protection Dr Richard Broome said community members should be on the lookout for signs and symptoms.

"In their early stages, invasive bacterial infections including IMD or iGAS sometimes mimic symptoms of viral infections like COVID and influenza, and can also follow or occur at the same time as a viral infection," Dr Broome said.

READ ALSO:

"Rapid intervention and effective treatment for invasive bacterial infections are available and can be lifesaving."

There were 137 cases of iGAS notified in NSW between September and December last year.

Last year, there were 36 cases of IMD reported.

Signs of IMD include headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and unexplained joint or limb pain. A rash of red-purple spots or bruises may also develop.

Signs of iGAS include a red, rapidly spreading skin infection which may have pus or ulcerations, and muscle aches. Any previous bruises or skin infections may become red, warm or painful.

Children may have a sunburn-like rash.

Signs of serious illness include fever, fast heart rate, cold hands and feet, mottled skin, and increased lethargy or confusion.

In children, look out for cold and mottled limbs, difficulty breathing, irritability, and high-pitched crying.

Learn more at the NSW Health website.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: