Statement on suspected meningococcal case

5 March 2009

We can confirm that a student at Blackburn College has died from suspected meningococcal disease.

The student's immediate family have been treated with antibiotics as a precautionary measure and staff and pupils at the college have been given information on meningococcal infection and reassurance that no further action is necessary.

A spokesman for the Health Protection Agency said:  "It is tragic when a young person dies suddenly from an acute illness and our thoughts are with the student's family at this very difficult time for them. They have been given antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

"Other students and staff in the colleague should be reassured that there is no wider public health risk. The meningococcal germ is common, but illness resulting from it is rare. Most people who have contact with the germ become immune to the disease rather than becoming ill with it.

"About one person in ten carries the meningococcal germ in their nose and throat without coming to harm from it. It is only spread from one person to another by very close contact and usually contact within the same family. That is why it is usually only necessary to give antibiotics to people who have lived in the same house as the patient in the seven days prior to the patient becoming ill.

"The antibiotics kill any meningococcal germs being carried in the nose or throats of household contacts. Other people such as visitors to the house, school friends or teaching staff do not need antibiotics. However, everyone should be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection, particularly at this time of the year when it tends to be more prevalent, and be prepared to take immediate actions if it is suspected."

Meningococcal infection is a serious illness that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the brain) or septicaemia (blood poisoning). The onset of illness can be sudden and treatment should be sought immediately it is suspected.

Early symptoms, which may not always be present, can include:

• A rash that doesn't fade when pressed with a glass
• Sudden onset of high fever
• Severe and worsening headache
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting
• Joint and muscle pain
• Dislike of bright lights
• Very cold hands and feet
• Drowsiness that can deteriorate into a coma

Further information is available from:

The Meningitis Trust, tel. 0845-6000-800, website: www.meningitis-trust.org
The Meningitis Research Foundation, tel. 0808-800-3344, website: www.meningitis.org
Alternatively, people with concerns can ring NHS Direct on 0845-4647

Press statement issued by Hugh Lamont, Communications Manager, HPA North West. Tel. 0151-482-5728 or 07764-906508

 

 

Last reviewed: 9 March 2009