Mum releases horrific Meningicoccal B photos as warning to parents

A mother whose daughter nearly died from Meningococcal B has released images of the five-year-old as a warning to parents.

Jazmyn Parkyn contracted the illness two years ago, and despite being able to save her daughter, Sarah has released a timeline of images showing how the rash spread and nearly took Jasmine’s life.

“You get your standard photos of the end stages but not what it looks like at the beginning stages,” Ms Parkyn said.

A small dot at 9.30am can be seen growing into a body-sized rash 13 hours later.

Australian Medical Association vice-president Dr Chris Moy said a quick reaction to the virus breaking out mattered because, “minutes matter in this situation.”

But Jasmine is one of the more fortunate cases of 254 reported last year, where 11 died.

Vaccine for Meningococcal C is currently covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme while Meningococcal B vaccine still costs up to $500.

Sarah Parkyn believes the vaccine should be made available to everyone.

“It should be on the PBS and the National Immunisation Schedule,” she said.

Ms Parkyn said her daughter still suffered from headaches and leg pains, and needed medication daily.