The Government has written to all Tasmanians about our expanded vaccination program, which is in response to a localised outbreak of meningococcal W in the New Town, Moonah and Glenorchy areas.
Free vaccines are being provided to Tasmanians aged between six weeks to 21 years.
About 5000 Tasmanians received a free vaccination at booked out public health clinics at the Derwent Entertainment Centre over the weekend.
People who live, go to school, or work in the New Town, Moonah and Glenorchy areas were prioritised for vaccination.
A second round of free vaccination clinics will be held at the DEC on Saturday, August 18, and Sunday, August 19 which will be opened up to people who reside in the Greater Hobart area.
Clinics will be rolled out to run state-wide over the next three months. Eligible Tasmanians can also be vaccinated by their general practitioner, with pharmacists also able to offer vaccinations in coming weeks.
It remains important for the public to be aware of the symptoms of meningococcal disease, such as fever, severe headache, severe muscle pain, and quickly becoming unusually unwell. Late in the illness, there can be a rash. Infants can be lethargic, floppy and feed poorly.
Anyone who is concerned they may be showing symptoms of meningococcal disease should seek emergency medical care.
Further information is available online at http://www.health.tas.gov.au and this website is constantly updated with information about the program and free clinics. If you need further assistance, you can contact the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.