Tributes to Sheffield school pupil who's died of suspected meningitis
A Sheffield junior school is paying tribute to one of its Year 5 pupils, who's tragically died of suspected meningitis.
A Sheffield junior school is paying tribute to one of its Year 5 pupils, who's tragically died of suspected meningitis.
The child from Hunter's Bar Junior school was taken to hospital where she passed away yesterday morning.
In a statement, Headteacher Jill Hallsworth described the girl as 'a genuinely good person' who helped everyone she could:
“We are all just so sad that a member of our school community has died but we are taking a lot of time to remember her beautiful personality.
“She was a genuinely good person and helped everyone she could. She was a superb School Council member and everyone knew her because she exuded positivity and care for everyone in the school community. She was special and will be missed.
“Our thoughts are very much with the family at this difficult time.”
Sheffield City Council says some children at the school have been offered antibiotics as a precaution.
Cllr Jackie Drayton said: “Medical experts have advised the school that meningococcal infection is a rare illness and is not pssed easily from person to person. As a precautionary measure those who have been in closest contact with the child have been offered antibiotics.
“We are working with the school community to support them during this difficult time and our thoughts are with the child’s family and loved ones.”
The council says that while meningococcal infection is a rare illness, it can be serious and so it’s always important to be aware of the symptoms and seek urgent medical help if there’s any concern about someone who is ill – contact NHS 111 or your GP for advice.
Symptoms to look for can include:
- a high temperature and/or vomiting; - severe headache; - a stiff neck, aching limbs and joints; - a dislike of bright lights; - drowsiness and/or a purple rash, which does not fade when pressed; - in small babies, a refusal to feed and a high pitched cry.