A woman in her 40s is fighting for her life in hospital after being diagnosed with invasive meningococcal disease in regional South Australia, as the state records a sharp rise in cases.
The woman has contracted serogroup B meningococcal disease and remains in a critical condition. Health authorities have identified several close contacts, with three people given clearance antibiotics as a precaution.
South Australia has recorded 21 cases so far this year, compared with 13 at the same point last year. Of the cases reported in 2026, 19 have been identified as meningococcal B.
Symptoms of meningococcal disease
Meningococcal disease can worsen rapidly and become life-threatening within hours without urgent treatment.
Symptoms may include fever, headache, vomiting, a stiff neck and sensitivity to light. A red or purple rash can also appear, while severe infections may lead to confusion, shock and organ failure.
Young children can show different signs, including unusual irritability, refusing food, cold hands and feet, leg pain and excessive drowsiness.
SA Health is urging anyone who develops symptoms to seek immediate medical attention, stressing that early treatment is critical.
Vaccines are available for several meningococcal strains, but vaccinated people are still being advised to remain alert because immunisation does not protect against every type of infection.
In South Australia, free meningococcal B vaccines are available to infants at six weeks, four months and 12 months, as well as to Year 10 students.
