Health services are dealing with two confirmed cases of meningitis, and another probably case, in teenagers in the west of Ireland.
Public health services were notified of the cases, which concern three teenagers, in early February. Close contacts have been identified and offered preventive treatment as appropriate.
However, because the three people attended the same school, the health services are following national guidance and as a precaution will offer one dose of an antibiotic to all students and staff.
The HSE has stressed that the risk to others in the school is very low and this action is a precaution.
Meningitis is a serious illness caused by infection and inflammation of the protective layers of the brain and spinal cord. While there are many causes of meningitis, the two most common are viral and bacterial meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis is less common but can be more serious than viral meningitis and requires urgent treatment with antibiotics. It may be accompanied by septicaemia.
Dr Anthony Breslin, Consultant in Public Health Medicine said, “Time is of the essence when you start to notice one or some of the symptoms. Knowing the signs could save your life, or a loved one’s life.”
“Early symptoms can include headache, fever, vomiting, and muscle pain. Further specific symptoms can include fever with cold hands and feet, stiff neck, dislike to bright lights, drowsiness and confusion.”
“The symptoms may appear in any order or some may not appear at all. Please seek immediate medical help if you suspect meningitis.”
The health services have stressed that person-to-person transmission of the disease is uncommon, especially with people who are not a household or physically close personal contact.
The spread of the bacteria is caused by droplets from the nose and mouth. The illness occurs most frequently in young children and adolescents, usually as isolated cases.
