Another student is suspected to have meningococcal disease at the University of Otago, the Southern District Health Board says.
Medical officer of health Dr Keith Reid said the DHB was in the process of investigating the patient's condition.
"We will work closely with the university authorities to implement an appropriate response when the nature of the student's condition is clear."
An 18-year-old university student, a resident at Studholme College, was taken to hospital with the condition in May.
The last update the hospital provided said he was making good progress.
Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can potentially lead to either meningitis (an inflamation of the brain) or blood poisoning (septicaemia).
What to look for
Meningococcal disease can be difficult to diagnose because it can look like other illnesses, such as the flu, the Ministry of Health advises.
Symptoms of meningitis can develop suddenly and include:
• a high fever
• headache
• sleepiness
• joint and muscle pains.
There can also be some more specific symptoms, such as:
• a stiff neck
• dislike of bright lights
• vomiting
• a rash consisting of reddish-purple pin-prick spots or bruises.
What to do
• If you or anyone in your family has these symptoms, call your doctor straight away or dial 111. Say what the symptoms are.
• You can also call Healthline free on 0800 611 116, 24 hours a day - even if you have already been seen by a health professional.
• If you have seen a doctor and gone home, but are still concerned, don't hesitate to call your doctor again or seek further medical advice. Don’t be put off. Insist on immediate action.
- Source: Ministry of Health
