Dunfermline Child Suffering From Meningitis

NHS Fife says cases of meningitis are approximately 20 per year.

A child from Dunfermline was recently admitted to hospital with meningococcal disease. 

The child’s condition is stable. 

Family members in prolonged close contact have been offered antibiotics to prevent further spread of infection. There have been no links identified with any other recent cases in Fife.

Dr Margaret Hannah, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at Fife NHS Board, said: 

“The chance of a further case is very small indeed. We see less than 20 cases a year in Fife most of which tend to be in the winter months. It is important however for people to recognise the signs and symptoms and seek urgent medical help if they are at all concerned. 

“The symptoms can include fever/vomiting, severe headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness and rash that does not disappear if pressed with a glass tumbler.

“In addition, very young children may refuse food, appear abnormally drowsy or agitated and have unusual body movements or a shrill or moaning cry when handled.

“People should seek urgent medical help if they suspect they or one of their family are ill with meningococcal infection.”

Further information and support is available from the Meningitis Research Foundation's 24 hour Freephone helpline on 0808 800 3344 or via www.meningitis.org