Meningitis tests awaited on second pupil

Tests for meningitis are being carried on two pupils

Tests continue on a four-year-old boy suspected of having meningitis after his classmate was confirmed with the B strain of the virus.

The positive case from Ton Pentre Infants School in Rhondda involves a strain of the virus for which there is no vaccine.

The boys had received jabs for the C strain of the disease

Swabs taken from his friend are being tested to determine whether he has the same strain.

The pupils are being cared for at the University of Wales Hospital in Cardiff, where they are said to be in a stable condition.

Both boys - along with other pupils at the 176-pupil school - were vaccinated against the C strain of the disease just a few months ago as part of a routine immunisation programme.

Health chiefs are giving antiobiotics to staff and and pupils to prevent the spread of the disease.

Both pupils are in a "stable" condition in hospital

Close friends and relatives of the two boys have already received antibiotics.

In a statement, education chiefs at Rhondda Cynon Taff said they were concerned to hear of the cases at Ton Pentre, but were urging parents not to panic.

"Obviously, at this time our thoughts are with the children and their families and we hope for a full and speedy recovery," the statement said.

"We are working in close co-operation with the health authority and the school and all pupils have been given antibiotics. There has also been a full meeting of parents.

" We understand the concerns of parents but, as always, would advise that the best course of action is to continue to send children to school as normal.

"We will continue to ensure that parents and the community are kept fully informed."

Bro Taf Health Authority consultant Dr Marion Lyons urged parents to be on their guard, as the signs of meningococcal disease were often easy to miss.

She said the tell-tale signs of meningitis included headache, fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, dislike of bright light, and drowsiness.

The most distinctive symptom is a skin rash which does not disappear when pressed with a glass tumbler.