The young child died in the New England region - which stretches from Quirindi, near Tamworth, to the Queensland border.

It was the fourth case of meningococcal disease in the Hunter New England region this year.

"This is a tragic event and our sympathies are with the child's family at this very difficult time," public health physician, Dr David Durrheim, said. "Clearance antibiotics have been prescribed to close contacts of the child to eradicate any meningococcal bacteria they may be carrying and prevent further transmission. Meningococcal disease can occur at any time of year, but we do typically see a peak in cases in spring following the winter flu season. Most cases occur in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults, although people of any age can be affected."

Dr Durrheim said meningococcal infection was not spread easily.

"It is spread by secretions from the nose and throat of a person who is carrying the bacteria, and close and prolonged contact is needed to pass it on," he said.

"Meningococcal disease usually begins with the sudden onset of fever, often with headache, nausea and drowsiness. Neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises may develop rapidly.

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

Since July 1, 2018, the Australian Government has expanded the protection offered to infants under the National Immunisation Program to include meningococcal A, W and Y disease, in addition to the meningococcal C.

The NSW Government has also funded meningococcal ACWY vaccine for older adolescents in schools since 2017 in response to an increase in cases of meningococcal W.