93% of Australian parents believe that they know what meningococcal disease is, but nearly one in three (28%) Australian parents are not fully aware of key facts about the disease.

22% of parents recently surveyed misidentified the deadly bacterial infection…

• 2% thought it was a type of cancer
• 16% thought it was the flu
• 4% thought it was sunburn

96% of parents understand meningococcal disease is life-threatening, however an average of 41% Australian parents are not aware of some of the more specific symptoms of the disease.

Whilst rare, meningococcal disease can progress rapidly – resulting in death within 24 hours or serious long-term disabilities, including brain damage, deafness and limb loss.

Globally, there are 13 different strains of meningococcal bacteria, of which, three most commonly cause disease in Australia (B, W & Y).

Almost a quarter (24%) of Australian parents do not know there is more than one strain of meningococcal disease.

• 97% of parents surveyed believe vaccinations are important because they help prevent disease.
• 43% of parents with a young child rely on their doctor for information about vaccinations.
• 60% of parents have not sought vaccination beyond the routine childhood vaccination schedule.
• 46% incorrectly believe that all strains of meningococcal are covered by routine childhood vaccinations.

When it comes to meningococcal disease, don’t assume you know. Know.

Speak to your doctor and visit KnowMeningococcal.com.au