South Australia Health is urging Australians travelling to Europe to be vigilant following a deadly wave of meningococcal B, after the sudden death of Alexander “Zander” Philogenes, 21, the nephew and godson of renowned Adelaide chef Chris Jarmer.
Student Dies Within Hours
Philogenes, a fourth-year chemical engineering and finance double degree student, was on a university exchange trip in Vienna, Austria, when he contracted an aggressive strain of meningococcal B currently circulating widely across Europe. He died within four hours of developing symptoms, including a headache and a rash.
His uncle, Chris Jarmer, described him as gifted, athletic, and deeply loved. “Xander was fit, played basketball, football, and was highly intelligent — he was so smart,” Jarmer told 7NEWS.
Rapid Onset of Symptoms
The young student had been “having the time of his life” overseas before suddenly falling ill with a headache and rash — symptoms that rapidly escalated. Jarmer said he’s speaking out to raise awareness about how quickly the disease can strike.
“You’re young, you think you’ve just caught a little bug or the flu and you’ll shake it off. It happens so quickly — it’s tragic,” he said.
Family and Community in Mourning
Zander’s parents and siblings have travelled to Vienna for his funeral, while a memorial service will be held in Perth next month for extended family and friends. A passionate Crows supporter, he will be honoured with a personalised guernsey.
“I’ll be getting him a Guernsey with the number 21 and his name on the back that my sister can hang in his room,” Jarmer said.
Health Officials Urge Vaccination
SA Health is urging travellers to be aware of meningococcal symptoms and to ensure vaccinations are up to date before heading overseas. Experts say meningococcal B is aggressive and when symptoms present, every second counts.
“That’s why we really encourage people to get vaccinated against meningococcal,” SA Health’s Noel Lally said.
“When you’re travelling, any vaccinations at all, make sure you talk to your GP and make sure you’re fully covered for everything you can be,” expert Karen Quick added.
Fundraiser for School
Friends of the family have started a GoFundMe, which will be donated to Xander’s school.
