Antibiotic treatment has been arranged for the woman's close contacts as a precaution to prevent spread of infection.

This is the fourth case of meningococcal disease in the Hunter New England Health region this year. There are no links between this suspected case and any previous cases.

In 2007 there were 12 cases of meningococcal disease in the Hunter New England Health region, compared to 12 cases in 2006, 13 cases in 2005 and 24 cases in 2004.

Public Health Physician Dr Tony Merritt said seeking medical attention quickly could help prevent the development of serious complications.

"If anyone suspects meningococcal disease, they should seek medical attention immediately," Dr Merritt said.

Up to 10 per cent of patients Australia-wide can die of meningococcal disease. The first symptoms of the disease include pain the legs, cold hands and feet and abnormal skin colour.

Later symptoms may include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights, nausea and vomiting, a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises and drowsiness.

Babies with the infection can be irritable, not feed properly and have an abnormal cry.

"Meningococcal infection does not spread easily. It is spread by secretions from the nose and throat of a person who is carrying it and close and prolonged contact is needed to pass it on. It does not appear to be spread through saliva or by sharing drinks, food or cigarettes," Dr Merritt said.

He stressed that while meningococcal disease could be serious, in most cases, early detection and treatment resulted in a complete recovery.

The two main strains of meningococcal disease include B and C. A vaccine is effective against the less common meningococcal C strain, but there is currently no Australians vaccine for the B strain of the disease.

Most cases of meningococcal disease are seen in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults, although people of any age can be infected.