Leaders have reacted to the meningitis outbreak in Reading as a young person has sadly died from the illness.
A Henley College student has died following an outbreak of the disease on Thursday, May 14, and further cases have been confirmed across schools in Reading.
Yuan Yang, the Labour MP for Earley and Woodley, said: “I am aware of the localised meningitis outbreak in Reading, and my thoughts and condolences are with the young person who has tragically passed away.
“The UK Health Security Agency are leading the outbreak response, identifying close contacts, and offering preventative antibiotics as a precaution and information has been shared with students and parents at all affected schools about the signs and symptoms of meningitis.
“Meningitis is spread by prolonged close contact, therefore the risk to the general public remains very low.
“Anyone who has not been contacted by the UKHSA does not require any treatment and should continue to be vigilant of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease. These are listed on the NHS website.
“Meningitis can progress rapidly, so if you or someone in your family is showing any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical help.
“The link to the NHS web page listing symptoms and other organisations with helpful information can be found at the links here.
“As always, if you need medical treatment, you can call 111, visit your GP, or call 999 for urgent and serious issues.”
Ms Yang posted this on Facebook.
This message was echoed by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading Central, and Olivia Bailey, the Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, who has also posted on Facebook about the issue.
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.
Councillor Isobel Ballsdon (Conservative, Caversham Heights) 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.”
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/delirium
– extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
