Child meningitis cases confirmed

A meningitis rash does not disappear when pressed

Health bosses in Wiltshire are writing to schools and GPs after two children in the Marlborough area were confirmed as having meningitis.

One child remains in hospital while a second was allowed to go home and a third child is undergoing tests for the disease.

A public health spokeswoman said people who had been in close contact with the children had been given antibiotics.

She said there was "no need for alarm" and the cases were being investigated.

'Brain inflammation'

Meningitis advice leaflets will be given to all parents after the half-term holiday.

Parents and guardians have also been advised to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain lining which in severe cases can cause serious disability or even death.

There are various forms of meningitis. One of the most common varieties is the meningococcal bacterium.

It can also cause septicaemia, a blood poisoning form of the disease. There is also a viral form of meningitis, but this is less serious.

Symptoms can include a fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, drowsiness and a sensitivity to light.

The patient may also develop a red rash which looks like red pin pricks, and which may develop into purple bruises, blood blisters or blood spots.

A tell-tale test is to press a clear glass firmly against the skin to see if the rash fades and loses its colour.

If it does not, contact your doctor immediately.