The Department of Public Health Mid-West says it is investigating a single case of confirmed meningitis in Clare in which a teenager passed away.
Public health experts say the overall risk to the wider community is considered low, though close contacts of the person who died are being offered treatment.
The general public is being warned to keep an eye for signs and symptoms of the disease.
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Public Health Midwest statement:
The Department of Public Health Mid-West is investigating a single case of confirmed meningococcal disease in Clare.
Public Health Mid-West was notified of the case in recent days, and concerns a teenager who sadly died. We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
Close contacts are being identified by Public Health Mid-West and are being contacted and offered treatment. The overall risk to the wider community is considered low.
Person-to-person spread of meningococcal disease is very unusual, especially with others who are not a household or physically close personal contact.
Meningitis is a serious illness involving inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
It can be caused by a variety of different germs, mainly bacteria and viruses. Bacterial meningitis is less common but usually more serious than viral meningitis and requires urgent treatment with antibiotics.
Bacterial meningitis may be accompanied by septicaemia (blood poisoning). The bacteria live naturally in the nose and throat of normal healthy persons without causing illness.
The spread of the bacteria is caused by droplets from the nose and mouth. The illness occurs most frequently in young children and adolescents, usually as isolated cases.
Bacterial meningitis or septicaemia requires urgent antibiotic treatment.
While the risk to the wider community is considered low, we do want the general public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this disease.
Signs and symptoms may include:
· Severe Headaches
· Fever
· Vomiting
· Drowsiness
· Discomfort from bright light
· Neck stiffness
· Rash
We advise that if anyone has concerns, they should contact their GP immediately and ensure that medical expertise is sought.
