Health NZ is treating meningococcal disease as an outbreak among Dunedin students after two confirmed cases this month.
Health NZ suspects there has been at least one other suspected case who has not yet been identified.
National Public Health Service medical officer of health Dr John Eastwood said meningococcal disease spreads easily through close contact and that others may be carrying the bacteria without knowing it.
“You can carry it in your nose and throat without having any symptoms, and still pass it on,” he said.
Health New Zealand is advising students — particularly those living in halls of residence or hostels — to be vaccinated as soon as possible and to avoid sharing drink bottles or vapes.
The first case was detected at Otago Polytechnic’s Te Pā Tauira hall on March 7, with a second confirmed this week at the University of Otago.
High demand for meningococcal vaccines over the weekend caused some Dunedin pharmacies temporarily run out of stock, with students reporting full clinics and long booking delays.
"A lot of places are fully booked for the next two or three weeks," student Giann van Hwerden said.
The limited number of pharmacies open over the weekend contributed to local supply issues. More doses were expected to arrive next week but Health NZ said there is no national shortage of vaccines.
Eastwood said the meningococcal B strain is unique to New Zealand and required a specific vaccine, most commonly given in childhood, though immunity faded over time.
"The vaccine only gives protection for about five to seven years — it’s not lifelong," he said.
Health NZ believe infections are spreading asymptomatically within the student population, with pharmacies reporting heavy vaccine demand. (Source: 1News)
There were 40 meningococcal cases in New Zealand last year, including four deaths.
Symptoms can include a severe headache, neck stiffness, light sensitivity, fever, nausea, drowsiness, and a rash. Even with prompt treatment, around one in 10 people infected will die.
Meningitis Foundation spokesperson Gerard Rushton told 1News the outbreak highlighted gaps in vaccine coverage for teenagers.
"We’ve been calling for free vaccinations for all teens, not just those in first year halls or boarding schools," he said.
Rushton lost his daughter Courtenay to meningococcal disease in 2014 and said the illness could overwhelm young, healthy people very quickly.
"It can take young people within 24 hours," he said.
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