We have heard that two pupils who attend the Blue Door Nursery in Heath, Cardiff have contracted meningococcal meningitis.

We are thinking about the children and their families and wish them well at this difficult time.

Although it’s rare to have connected cases we would urge everyone in the area to make themselves aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and to remain vigilant. Seek medical attention immediately if you are concerned about your own, or anyone else’s health.

Meningitis can start with ‘flu like’ symptoms. Those to look out for include fever, headache, vomiting and muscle pain. Other symptoms can include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and seizures. In babies, symptoms can include being floppy and unresponsive, dislike of being handled, rapid breathing, moaning cry and a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the top of the head). Advice from the Trust is not to wait for a rash, which may not appear immediately or at all.

If anyone requires information on the signs and symptoms or how we can support those who contract the disease and their family, please get in touch on our 24-hour freephone nurse-led helpline on 0808 80 10 388.