MU Health: Medical Service, are working with WA Health implementing a meningococcal ACWY ( menW) vaccination program for 15-19 year olds. This state funded program with run for three years starting in 2017 and ending in 2019.

All students, domestic and international aged between 15-19 years of age are eligible for the free vaccine.  This can be obtained by booking an appointment with a GP at the Murdoch University Health: Medical Service. Appointments  All appointments for students with Medicare or OHSC, Allianz or NIB insurance are direct billed with no out of pocket costs.

Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but sometimes life threatening illness. The disease is a result of a bacterial infection of the blood and/ or the membranes that line the spinal cord and brain.

On average there is between 10 and 20 cases of meningococcal disease in WA each year, mainly in winter and spring. Some of the highest rates of meningococcal carriage and illness occur amongst 15-19 year olds.  The disease is most likely to be spread only to very close contacts, such as people who live in the same household and sexual contacts, students living in residential colleges are at increased risk of contracting the disease.

Meningococcal bacteria are spread by respiratory secretions (coughing, sneezing or kissing), but not by saliva, so it cannot be picked up by drinking from the same cup or sharing food.

Although treatable with antibiotics, the infection can spread rapidly, so it’s important to seek prompt medical advice if you are experience symptoms of meningococcal disease.

Symptoms in Adults include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting, diarrhoea
• Neck stiffness
• Muscle or joint pains
• Drowsiness or confusion

Sometimes these symptoms may be accompanied by the appearance of a spotty purple rash that looks like small bleeding points beneath the skin, or bruises. If you notice a rash like this, get it checked by your doctor promptly.

The meningococcal vaccine provides protection against strains A, C, W and Y, most people will only require one dose.

The vaccine is also available at for individuals over the age of 19 who wish to be vaccinated, appointments with the doctor will be bulk billed but the vaccine will incur a small private fee.

Further information on Meningococcal disease can be found here

Further information on the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine can be found here

If you have any concerns or would like to know more about meningococcal disease, do come and speak with any of the health professionals ( doctors and nurses) at the Medical Service. Building 418, Tavern Undercroft, South Street Campus. Tel 9360-2293