In New Zealand, the five main types of meningococcal disease are A, B, C, Y and W.

About half of the cases is caused by Type B — the one most people have heard of which usually affects infants, young children and adolescents. The rates are higher among Maori and Pasifika communities and with infants living in low-income situations. In recent years, type W has increased its spread. This is particularly worrisome because it can be  difficult for doctors to diagnose and it is more lethal than the others.

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