The MPs in Reading have urged people to follow the guidance of health officials following a meningitis outbreak in the area.
Sadly, teenager Lewis Waters, a student of Henley College, died after contracting the disease last month.
Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading Central, said: “Residents in Reading and the surrounding area will be aware of three confirmed cases of Meningitis B.
“Tragically, one student has died and I would like to offer my deepest condolences to their family and friends at this very difficult time.
“My thoughts are also with the two other young people receiving treatment at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
“My office has been in contact with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the local Director of Public Health who have reassured me that the risk to the wider community is low as meningitis can only be spread by a long period of close contact.
“However, I would urge parents and young people to follow NHS advice, be aware of the symptoms on meningitis and to check their vaccination record.”
Meningitis symptons can include vomitting, a rash, dizziness and aches and pains.
Mr Rodda added: “Meningitis can progress rapidly, so if you or someone in your family is showing any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical help.
“The UKHSA are leading the outbreak response, identifying close contacts, and offering preventative antibiotics as a precaution.
“Information has been shared with students and parents to all affected schools about the signs and symptoms of meningitis. It is important that parents and young people are aware and alert to the signs and symptoms of Meningitis.
If you or someone in your family is feeling unwell, please call NHS 111 for advice.”
Meanwhile, Olivia Bailey, the Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, acknowledged that there is a case of meningitis B recorded in her constituency – a pupil at Westwood Farm Junior School in Fullbrook Crescent, Tilehurst.
She said: “My thoughts are with the young person and their family. My office remains in contact with the Public Health team for Reading and West Berkshire and they have again confirmed that the risk to the wider community is low.
“The bacteria do not spread very easily and can only be passed to others after a long period of close contact.”
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.
“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.
“As always, if you need medical treatment, you can call 111, visit your GP, or call 999 for urgent and serious issues.”
