Government is rolling out vaccines

Earlier this month Wurli-Wurlinjang Aboriginal Health Service rolled out free vaccines to combat the outbreak of meningococcal W in Katherine. 

Currently the free vaccine is only available to Aboriginal people aged between 12 months and 19 years in Katherine and to anyone aged between 12 months and 19 years living in remote communities. 

“I have heard from several community members expressing their concerns regarding the meningococcal outbreak, not having access to the vaccination for children in the high risk category,” Ms Nelson said. 

“The government is mobilising resources to offer these vaccines to all children in affected areas.

“Additional clinical resources, staffing and vaccinations are being mobilised to facilitate the rollout in Alice Springs and Katherine and these additional resources will be in place mid next week.”

Ms Nelson said the risk of non-Indigenous children contracting Meningococcal W is low. 

“We understand there is community concern and those that feel they need a vaccination should visit a GP first to ascertain the need for a vaccine before making a booking at their local health centre,” Ms Nelson said. 

Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but very serious disease. 

It is treatable with antibiotics but the infection can progress very quickly. Symptoms include fever, headache, neck stiffness, an aversion to bright lights, a rash and joint pain.

Those affected may also have vomiting and diarrhoea, be difficult to wake up and babies may refuse food and drink and have a high pitched cry.