Cases of meningococcal illness confirmed at County Roscommon school

The Department of Public Health West and North West has confirmed that it is responding to two cases of confirmed infection and one probable case of infection of meningococcal illness at a County Roscommon school.

Public health officials were notified of the cases in early February, and concerns three teenagers. Close contacts have been identified and offered preventive treatment as appropriate.

However, because the three people attended the same school, Public Health West and North West is following national guidance and as a precaution will offer one dose of an antibiotic to all students and staff at the school.

It has stressed that the risk to others in the school is very low and this action is a precaution.

Person-to-person spread of meningococcal disease is uncommon, especially with people who are not a household or physically close personal contact.

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.