We have developed specific information for both pre-school/early years providers and schools, which details all the vital information about meninigitis and what happens if you experience a case. You can download these valuable resources here.
In the rare event that there is a case in school, a Public Health Team will co-ordinate the actions that need to be taken. They will liaise with the Head Teacher and will offer advice and guidance. The Public Health Team will usually issue a letter to parents to give them information about meningitis. Close contacts will be offered antibiotics to help prevent further cases. There is no need for the school to be closed. Most cases of meningitis happen alone, but if 2 or more cases of the same strain occur within 4 weeks in the same school then the Public Healtth Team will review the situation and offer antibiotics to a wider group of people. Each case is dealt with individually depending on the circumstances.
A diary written by a Public Health Doctor shows an example of the course of events that can take place when there is a case of meningitis in a school . You can read the diary by using the left-hand menu or click below
For more information about meningitis download our symptoms card and What is meningitis? leaflet
If you need further information or you have any questions, please call our 24 hour nurse-led helpline
or
