A Henley College student has died after a meningitis outbreak in Reading on Thursday 14 May. Further cases have been confirmed in local schools.
Two other cases have been identified: one at Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning, and another at Highdown Secondary School and Sixth Form in Emmer Green.
Yuan Yang, the Labour MP for Earley and Woodley, expressed condolences and said the UK Health Security Agency is leading the response, identifying close contacts and offering preventative antibiotics. She said the risk to the general public remains very low. MPs Matt Rodda and Olivia Bailey echoed the message.
Councillor Isobel Ballsdon said: "It is heartbreaking news, and my thoughts are with the young person’s family, friends and the staff at this incredibly difficult time. Whilst out walking my dog yesterday evening, a couple told me about the sad news and their concerns that other local young people were potentially at risk. "It is so important that everyone is alert to the signs and seeks prompt medical help if they identify any of the symptoms."
If you need medical treatment, call 111, visit your GP, or call 999 for urgent issues.
Symptoms of meningitis 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 and diarrhoea
- joint and muscle pain
- dislike of bright lights
- very cold hands and feet
- seizures
- confusion or delirium
- extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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