HSE warning after Cavan children contract Meningitis

The HSE is advising people to be vigilant of the signs and symptoms of Meningococcal infection (Menigitis) after the occurrence of infection in two children attending the same creche in Ballyheelan, Kilnaleck.
The HSE has visited the creche and antibiotics have been administered to all children and staff who have had close contact with the two children concerned. Information and advice have also been provided to parents of children who attend the same creche.
The HSE acknowledges the full cooperation and support of the creche staff and management.
Meningococcal infection often has a sudden onset and, while most people recover, it can be fatal. The disease occurs most commonly in winter and spring. Young children and adolescents are most at risk but it can occur in any age group.
The HSE is advising people to contact their doctor immediately if they suspect they or their child has symptoms or signs of meningococcal infection.
These include:High Temperature, Headache, Stomach, joint or muscle pain, Nausea or Vomiting, Irritability, Drowsiness/Impaired consciousness, Pinpoint or blotchy purple rash which does not fade when pressed, Stiff neck and Dislike of bright light.
Babies may have: Tense or bulging fontanelle (soft spot on top of head), Blotching or pale skin, Refusal to feed, Fretfulness/shrill cry or Stiffness and jerkiness or floppy body.
The Meningococcal disease (Meningitis) is caused by bacterial infection. It does not spread easily - close and prolonged contact is usually required for the bacteria to spread from person to person. Only close household contacts require preventive treatment with antibiotics.