Mar
25th
Health Information on Meningitis & Septicaemia
At St Peter’s CE Primary School, keeping our children safe, cared for and thriving is at the heart of our vision to Love, Learn, Shine. With some national media attention recently around cases of meningitis in another part of the country, we want to ensure our families feel informed and reassured.
Although the situation reported in Kent is not affecting schools in our area, we know that conversations like this can naturally raise questions for parents and carers. The UK Health Security Agency has provided clear and reliable advice, and we are sharing this so that our school community knows the symptoms to look out for and when to seek medical support.
What Is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Septicaemia happens when bacteria enter the bloodstream and cause serious infection. Both can become severe very quickly, so recognising the signs early is important.
Symptoms can look similar to common childhood illnesses at first — things like fever, aches, headaches or vomiting — so keeping a close eye on a child who seems unwell is key.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Meningitis Symptoms May Include:
- fever
- a very bad headache
- vomiting
- stiff neck
- dislike of bright lights
- rash (a rash does not always appear)
- confusion or drowsiness
- fits or seizures
Septicaemia Symptoms May Include:
- fever and shivering
- cold hands and feet
- severe aches and pains in limbs or joints
- vomiting
- pale or blotchy skin
- fast breathing
- a rash that does not fade under pressure
- severe sleepiness or confusion
Early treatment saves lives, and medical help should be sought immediately if symptoms worsen or you are worried about your child or someone else.
Where to Find Trusted Information
The most up‑to‑date, reliable guidance is available through the
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), including:
- symptoms
- risks
- how to protect yourself
- current updates on confirmed cases nationally
Our Commitment to Care
We want to reassure families that there is no specific advice or additional action required for schools in our area at this time, as confirmed in the UKHSA school briefing.
If a child becomes unwell in school, we will continue to follow our normal procedures and contact parents promptly.
At St Peter’s, we believe that when we Love our community, Learn how to stay safe and healthy, and Shine by supporting one another, we help create a safer world for every child. If you have any concerns or would like to talk to us, please get in touch with the school office.
Posted In General News, Safeguarding and Wellbeing
