Teenager passes away after contracting meningitis

A TEENAGER in Clare has sadly passed away after contracting meningitis. 

The HSE Public Health Mid-West are investigating after being notified of the case in recent days. 

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.

The HSE have said that 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.

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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.

Signs and symptoms may include: severe headaches, fever, vomiting, drowsiness, rash, neck stiffness and discomfort from bright light

The HSE advise that if anyone has concerns, they should contact their GP immediately and ensure that medical expertise is sought.