07/09/2026
🦠Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to life‑threatening illnesses such as meningitis and septicaemia (blood infection). It can affect anyone, but babies, people living in crowded homes, hostels or residential centres, and those with weakened immune systems or respiratory infections are at higher risk.
âť—The early symptoms can look like a cold or flu. Watch for symptoms that are worsening quickly. You can contact your GP or healthcare provider, call Healthline on 0800 611 116 (24/7), or call 111 in an emergency.
💉Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family. Meningococcal B vaccination is free for children under 5 and for eligible 13–25-year-olds in their first year of certain close-living situations.
You can learn more about meningococcal symptoms and vaccination here: https://www.healthnz.govt.nz/health-topics/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/meningococcal-disease