DOCTORS are asking parents to be vigilant for signs and symptoms of meningitis after the death of a young girl in the last 24 hours.
Another girl is in a critical condition in hospital. Both are understood to be under 13-years-old and from Co Meath.
Clik here to view.
The HSE has confirmed that is it investigating two cases of suspected meningococcal meningitis in Navan.
A spokesperson said: “The cases were reported to the Department of Public Health, HSE North East earlier today, March 9, and concern two children under 12 who were hospitalised, one of whom subsequently died.
“Spread of meningococcal from person to person is very unusual, especially outside of close household contact.
“HSE Consultants in Public Health Medicine from the HSE Health Protection Team are currently with the parents, guardians and teachers at the primary school where both pupils were in attendance, and are liaising with clinical staff regarding care of the families of the children to ensure appropriate public health measures are in place.”
HSE public health staff are liaising with a primary school and with the extended family. Antibiotics have been issued where appropriate.
GPs asking parents to be vigilant and say if their child has even one of the signs or symptoms to seek immediate medical advice.
GP and Vice-President of the Irish College of General Practitioners, Dr John O’Brien said: “Any death from meningitis is a tragedy for the family and community involved.
“Our advice to parents and families in the area is to look out for symptoms such as high fever, lethargy or a rash in their child.
“If your child has even minor symptoms, or if they are a cause of concern, go to your GP for advice.”
He added: “However, if your child has no symptoms, please don’t come to your GP for a check-up.
“The chances of other children who came in contact with a child with meningitis being infected is very low.”
Clik here to view.
Acknowledging the concerns that parents and guardians are currently experiencing in the local community, Dr Paul Kavanagh, Director of Public Health Medicine HSE North East said: “Our thoughts in the first instance are clearly with the families of these two children, and particularly with the family of the child who sadly and tragically died.
“We are obviously very much aware of the anxiety that is being experienced locally and our focus is to ensure appropriate public health measures are put in place.
“Our medical experts are working closely with the school where they attended, advising and supporting parents, guardians and teachers.
MOST READ IN NEWS
“They are also working with the clinical staff who cared for the cases and their families.”
Dr Kavanagh stressed that the Public Health Protection Team were actively managing the situation locally.
He added: “Vaccination means that meningitis has become a rare occurrence.
“When it does occur, cases are usually isolated – spread from person to person is unusual, especially outside household contact.
“Vigilance for symptoms is important especially for younger children and adolescents.”