A man in his 20s from Adelaide has been hospitalised with invasive meningococcal disease, as cases almost double from this time last year.
The strain has been identified as serotype B, and the man is in a stable condition.
Authorities said multiple people had been in contact with the man, with three of those directed to take clearance antibiotics.
Seven cases of invasive meningococcal disease have been reported so far this year in South Australia, compared to four at the same time in 2022.
Of the cases, six have been serogroup B, and one serogroup W — the latter case reported in a woman in her 80s from rural SA on April 26.
SA Health said symptoms and signs of meningococcal disease can include headache, fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, and discomfort with light.
Skin rashes can occur, starting as red or purple spots that spread and look like bruises.
Children can also have pale, blotchy or abnormal colour to their skin.
The health body advised vaccines are available for various types of meningococcal-B vaccines are available and free for infants at six weeks, four months, 12 months and in adolescents in Year 10.
ACWY vaccines are available for infants at 12 months, and adolescents in Year 10.
However, SA Health has also urged people to be alert for symptoms of disease, as vaccines do not protect against all types of meningococcal.
