Two Victorians with meningococcal disease have died this year, with cases on the rise across Australia.

Health authorities did not release further information about the deaths but said there were five other known cases in the state in 2023, as of June 7.

A one-year-old was the youngest patient while the oldest was aged in their 90s but most patients were aged between 15 and 20 years old.

Earlier this week it was revealed a NSW resident aged in their 50s died from the disease and 19 cases were detected in the state this year, although none are believed to be linked.

A 53-year-old man is in a critical condition and eight others have been diagnosed in South Australia, while a Tasmanian man aged in his 50s is in hospital and two other cases have been reported.

The bacterial infection must be treated early as it can lead to death or disability and people can become very unwell within hours.

Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, neck stiffness, tiredness, joint pain, vomiting and a rash of red-purple spots or bruises.

People carrying the disease in their nose or throat may not have symptoms.

It is spread through close or intimate contact, such as with household members or intimate partners.

Victoria's health department said it is not easily spread through food or drink however recommended people do not share vapes or cigarettes.

Cases are known to occur more in winter and spring.

Vaccines are available to anyone aged six weeks or older.