Health
Meningococcal disease and Year 10 vaccinations on 4 and 5 June
On average, there are between 10 and 20 cases of meningococcal disease in WA each year, mainly in winter and spring. Nearly all cases of meningococcal disease are unrelated to other cases.
Children up to five have the highest risk of developing meningococcal disease in WA. Some of the highest rates of meningococcal carriage and illness occur among 15 to 19-year-olds. Once infected, they can transmit the bacteria to people who are at increased risk of infection, including young children.
University students living in residential colleges are also at increased risk of developing meningococcal disease because of their prolonged and close contact with others.
Symptoms in children and adults include:
- fever
- headache
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- neck stiffness
- muscle or joint pains
- drowsiness or confusion.
Sometimes, these symptoms may be accompanied by the appearance of a spotty red-purple rash that looks like small bleeding points beneath the skin or bruises. It is important to get this type of rash checked by your doctor promptly.
Vaccines are available against meningococcal serogroups A, B, C, W and Y.
Meningococcal ACWY vaccine is a combined meningococcal vaccine that protects against 4 strains – A, C, W and Y.
Parents will need to open the below attachment and scan the QR code to register your child online or visithealthywa.wa.gov.au/Schoolimmunisations for a printable consent form.
For more information, go to www.amandayoungfoundation.org.au.
Managing Sprain
A sprain is when ligaments (the tissues that hold bones together) are suddenly stretched or torn. Sprains usually occur in joints such as ankles, knees, wrists or fingers. You may have pain, tenderness or swelling of the affected joint. You may not be able to move the joint very well. A joint can take up to eight weeks to heal.
Do
- rest the injury for at least 48 hours
- use pain relief as directed, place ice pack on the injury for 15 to 20 minutes each hour for the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling and pain
- compress the injury by using a firm bandage or a tight stocking to help reduce swelling
- elevate the limb above the level of the heart to help reduce swelling and pain
- exercise after the initial swelling to help to repair and restore the limb.
Do not
- wrap the bandage too tightly
- sleep whilst wearing the compression bandage
- engage in vigorous exercise.
Visit your GP or go to the emergency department if any of the following develop:
- your swelling or pain is getting worse after following the advice given by this sheet
- your toes or fingers below the injury feel cold, numb or are blue.
- you have persistent pain or any other problems.
Judy Buckley
College Nurse