New suspected meningococcal case

The Public Health Agency (PHA) reported on Tuesday afternoon that they were looking into a possible case at St Patrick's Primary School in Legamaddy.

The agency said that is working with the school to ensure all appropriate public health actions are taken. Letters and information leaflets about meningococcal infection are also being distributed to parents and staff at the school.

On Monday, it was revealed that two children attending Our Lady and St Patrick primary school in Downpatrick are being treated for the infection.

A statement from PHA said that there was "heightened levels of concern" following the announcement.

"The PHA is working closely with both schools to investigate the cases and will continue to monitor the situation."

Meningitis is most commonly caused by the meningococcus bacterium. It causes inflammation of the brain lining and/or septicaemia.

Infection can occur at any age - but the majority of infections occur in children under four years old.

Symptoms of the disease can include a sudden onset of high fever, a severe and worsening headache without any other obvious cause, severe neck stiffness and a dislike of bright lights.

Dr Richard Smithson, the PHA's Consultant in communicable disease control, said: "I would like to reassure the parents of the children who attend the school that the likelihood of further cases at the school is low but, in line with standard national advice, immediate family of the child have been provided with antibiotics."

He said that the risk to the wider community is also "extremely low."

"It is important that people can recognise the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection so that they can be alert and seek medical help immediately if they suspect someone of having the symptoms."