ADFA Officer Cadet diagnosed with meningococcal disease

An Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Officer Cadet has been diagnosed with meningococcal disease.

The Officer Cadet concerned reported ill to the Canberra Area Medical Unit - Duntroon on Saturday night with flu-like symptoms. She was quickly assessed and immediately taken to Canberra hospital.

As the diagnosis could not be confirmed without further laboratory testing, a precautionary ADFA wide recall was authorised with members confined to the academy on the evening of Saturday, 14 June 2014.

Following discussions with ACT Health, the local area leave recall was rescinded.

The Australian Defence Force has been working closely with ACT Public Health officials on this matter. It has taken all precautions as appropriate and in accordance with guidelines and will continue to work with ACT Public Health to prevent spread of the disease.

No one else has presented with any symptoms and all members have been informed of the symptoms of meningococcal disease and have been strongly encouraged to seek medical advice immediately if they display any of the symptoms.

The Officer Cadet remains in the Intensive Care Unit in a critical condition. Defence will continue to provide support to the member’s family and ACT Health as required.

A small number of officer cadets and midshipmen with a history of close contact with the patient have been provided with medical support.

Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999