A young child is in a stable condition in a New England hospital with meningococcal disease.
Hunter New England Health has confirmed its the seventh case in the region this year, but maintains there are no links with any other cases.
There have been two deaths from the disease in the health region this year.
Close contacts of the child will be prescribed clearance antibiotics.
Public Health Physician, Dr Tony Merritt, says seeking medical attention quickly could prevent the development of serious complications.
“Meningococcal disease may be very severe and the community needs to be on the alert for its symptoms. If anyone suspects meningococcal disease, they should seek medical attention immediately,” he said.
The first symptoms of meningococcal disease may include pain in the legs, cold hands and feet and abnormal skin colour.
Later symptoms could include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights, nausea and vomiting, a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises and drowsiness.
