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Perth Man Dies Hours After Meningitis Symptoms
23 Apr
Summary
- A 21-year-old died rapidly from a virulent Meningococcal B strain.
- He became ill on a flight and collapsed within three hours of landing.
- The MenB vaccine is not free in WA, costing up to $600.
A 21-year-old man from Perth has passed away from a severe strain of Meningococcal B, experiencing a rapid decline after symptoms first appeared. Alexander Philogene, known as Zander, began feeling unwell while traveling in Europe and tragically died within hours.
He had been studying in Austria and was en route from Portugal when he fell ill. Zander collapsed within three hours of his flight's arrival, and despite being rushed to a hospital, medical professionals were unable to save him.
His uncle emphasized the importance of seeking medical care for any symptoms while traveling abroad. Experts suggest Zander may have contracted a new, aggressive subtype of Meningococcal B. Although vaccinated, it remains uncertain if his immunization covered this specific strain.
The MenB vaccine is not part of Western Australia's free immunization schedule, despite the B strain causing 80% of meningococcal cases in Australia. The vaccine's cost, approximately $400 for adults and $600 for babies, has led to calls for government funding.
