Surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease in Queensland, 2002.

During 2002, 124 cases of invasive meningococcal disease were notified in Queensland. This was similar to the previous year (n = 128). Four (3.2%) of the cases died. Trends by age and serogroup were generally similar to previous years and were consistent with the overall patterns of this disease in Australia. However, an apparent increase in serogroup C, which infected 41 per cent of cases, needs continued monitoring. This report highlights the need for continued surveillance of morbidity and mortality patterns and management of this disease. Ongoing surveillance will monitor the impact of the National Meningococcal C Vaccination Programme, commenced in early 2003. This report also highlights the need for ongoing community education to ensure people seek medical attention early after onset of the illness. This report shows that when general practitioners considered meningococcal disease as a diagnosis, their patients were admitted to hospital sooner than patients in whom this diagnosis was not initially considered. Acknowledging that early disease may present diagnostic difficulties, further awareness raising amongst general practitioners is required to promote early recognition and referral.