HSE West confirms death from suspected meningitis in western region

THE HSE West has issued a statement confirming it is aware of a death at the weekend from suspected meningococcal meningitis in the western region.

The HSE public health department is following up to ensure that all appropriate public health measures are taken.

The HSE advises that if anyone has any concerns, they should contact their GP in the first instance but ensure that prompt medical expertise is sought.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, which is the name given to the layer of tissue covering the brain and spinal cord.

The HSE West statement added: “The most common cause of bacterial meningitis in Ireland is Neisseria meningitidis (also known as meningococcus).

“Other bacteria also cause this disease, including bacteria that are not notifiable to the HSE.

Signs and symptoms of meningitis / meningococcal disease may include:

•Fever (sometimes with cold hands and feet).

•Joint or muscle pain.

•Rapid breathing.

•Severe headaches.

•Drowsiness.

•Discomfort from bright light.

•Neck stiffness.

•Vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea.

•Non-blanching rash may appear which may be tiny red pin pricks that may develop to purple bruises. This rash does not fade under pressure and develops late in the course of the illness.

“The National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) makes recommendations on immunisations based on epidemiology and international medical evidence.

“The HSE is advising parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated, as per the State’s Universal Immunisation Programme.”

FURTHER INFORMATION

HPSC meningitis fact sheet is available at: 

http://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/vaccinepreventable/bacterialmeningitis/factsheets/

National immunisation office https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/