We’re saddened to learn of the death of a 4-year-old boy in Llanelli after contracting meningococcal septicaemia
Public Health Wales has been in touch with Bigyn Primary School, which the boy attended, and is offering parents information and support. They say there is no wider public health risk.
Parents can also contact our helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or email helpline@meningitisnow.org if they have any concerns or questions.
Stuart Watkins, chairman of governors at Bigyn Primary School, told Wales Online: “He got taken to hospital on Thursday and died the same day; it came on so fast, it was very sad. It must have been absolutely devastating, the grandmother got in touch with the school."
Happened so quickly
“It’s very tragic as it happened so quickly, if the school can support the family we will do. He was a four-year-old boy who died and he has a couple of older brothers in the school who would be affected by it.”
Mr Watkins added: "Parents are going to be worried for their children but if they have any concerns they can contact the school."
Our founder, Steve Dayman, has expressed his sympathy for the family and friends of the boy and has written offering our support.
“We are saddened to learn of this case at Bigyn Primary School, and extend our thoughts and best wishes to the individual’s family and friends”, he said
Signs and symptoms
“Meningitis is a relatively rare disease – we urge parents with children at the school not to panic. Learning the signs and symptoms is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones against the disease.”
Common signs and symptoms of meningitis include fever, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, severe muscle pain, severe headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, convulsions/seizures, pale / blotchy skin, spots / rash.
If you suspect meningitis seek medical help immediately.
If you have a question about meningitis or meningococcal septicaemia, just want to talk things through or find out more about our support, our experienced support staff are here to help.
Call our Helpline on 0808 80 10 388 (9am-5pm Monday-Friday) or email helpline@meningitisnow.org (emails are answered during office hours only).
