A first year Queen’s student has suspected meningitis At least one student studying at Queen’s University in Belfast is being treated for suspected meningitis.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has confirmed that the case emerged at the weekend. Since then a second case has been reported but not confirmed.
Both students are in first year and are studying dentistry.
The PHA confirmed that antibiotics will be offered to all first year dentistry and medical students who share lectures as a precautionary measure.
The agency said it was working closely with the university’s senior medical officer to ensure all necessary measures were taken.
In a statement the PHA said that although meningitis was not common in the 16-24 age group, young people should be aware of the signs and symptoms.
These may include severe headache, dislike of bright lights, vomiting, neck stiffness, a non-blanching rash and drowsiness.
Should people develop any of these symptoms they should contact their GP or local A&E department immediately.
Students and young people should also watch out for these signs and symptoms in their friends.
A first-year student at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown, died from meningitis in September.
County Antrim teenager Fergal McCaughan from Ballycastle had just started a business studies degree at the University of Ulster in Jordanstown.
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