Following notification on 17 March 2026 of a probable case of meningitis in a pupil at a Belfast school, meningococcal disease has now been ruled out. No further actions are required from pupils, friends, or anyone who may have had contact with the individual. All appropriate public health actions have been completed. Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include: a high temperature (fever) over 37.5C (99.5F); being sick; a headache; a blotchy rash that doesn't fade when a glass is rolled over it (this won't always develop); a stiff neck; a dislike of bright lights; drowsiness or

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is aware of a probable case of bacterial meningitis in a pupil who attends a secondary school in Belfast. All appropriate public health actions have been completed. As a precaution, PHA has worked closely with the school and has issued information to parents and guardians. Relevant guidance has also been shared with GP Out-of-Hours services and Emergency Departments. All individuals identified as close contacts have been risk assessed and, where appropriate, have received antibiotic prophylaxis. We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is aware of the meningitis outbreak recently reported in South East England. The UKHSA is leading the response to the outbreak and there is no increased risk to the population in Northern Ireland. However, it is important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and the steps to take if they are concerned. Meningitis is a bacterial infection which can infect both the brain and or cause general septicaemia. Dr Maeve Middleton, Specialty Registrar in Public Health Medicine at the PHA said: “Meningitis can progress very quickly, and its

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding anyone choosing to drink alcohol this St Patrick’s Day to plan ahead and make safer choices. Stephanie Hanlon, Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol at the PHA, said: “As people get ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day with their friends and family, we are reminding them to keep an eye on their alcohol intake, should they choose to drink. “You should make a plan and stick to it. This can be difficult when you feel under pressure in a group situation, when peers may say ‘just have one more drink’, but keeping an eye on what your drinking, and letting