A staff member from Ballarat Grammar School in Victoria's west is in hospital after being diagnosed with meningococcal disease, and a second staff member is being tested.
In a letter sent to parents, headmaster Adam Heath said the school was working closely with Grampians Public Health to address health concerns and for any close contacts to be monitored.
"The staff members within our community who have been identified by the Grampians Public Health Unit as close contacts have been advised and are being closely monitored," Mr Heath said.
"Public Health Unit has not identified any students who are deemed close contacts at this time.
"Any staff or students requiring clearance antibiotics will be contacted directly by the Grampians Public Health Unit or the treating doctor."
In the letter, Mr Heath also said the school was in the process of briefing parents, teachers, and students, as well as providing "care and support" for the staff member and their family.
A Grampians Public Unit spokesperson said the risk to the broader community was low.
"If you or someone close to you has some of these signs, and appears to be much sicker than usual, seek medical attention from your doctor or nearest hospital emergency department immediately," the spokesperson said.
Early treatment of disease vital
Meningococcal disease can be difficult to diagnose as symptoms are similar to other illnesses. It can be treated with antibiotics.
Early treatment for meningococcal disease is vital.
Symptoms include rashes or bruise-like areas, fever, headaches, neck stiffness, confusion or vomiting.
Infants and small children are at a higher risk of serious illness with the disease.
In Australia, the most common types of meningococcal bacteria live in the nose or throat.
The bacteria can be spread through sneezing, coughing, sharing utensils or kissing.
According to the Health Direct government website, it is difficult to pass the bacteria on as it cannot survive outside the body for long periods of time.
