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Meningococcal numbers rise with 18th case reported in WA

The 18th case of meningococcal has been reported in Western Australia just days after Albany teen Lloyd Dunham died from the disease.

A middle-aged patient is currently being treated in hospital, according to The West Australian.

The WA Health Department said the patient had the same W strain that Mr Dunham had.

The 18th case of meningococcal has been diagnosed in Western Australia. Image: Getty
The 18th case of meningococcal has been diagnosed in Western Australia. Image: Getty

Meningococcal disease is a rare life-threatening illness caused by a bacterial infection of the blood or the membranes lining the spinal cord or brain.

It most often occurs in winter and spring.

19-year-old Albany man Lloyd Dunham recently died after contracting the W strain of meningococcal. Source: 7 News
19-year-old Albany man Lloyd Dunham recently died after contracting the W strain of meningococcal. Source: 7 News

The WA Health Department said the latest diagnosis was a timely reminder of the increased risk of meningococcal at this time of year.

Between 2000 and 2013, incidences of meningococcal had been on the decline, The West Australian reports.

But now the disease appears to be on the rise again.

There were 23 diagnoses in 2016, and 18 so far already this year.

The WA government has funded a free vaccine against strains A, C, W and Y for people aged 15-19.