A 17-YEAR-OLD Greenwich school pupil has died of meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning).

The pupil, who attended Colfe's School, in Horn Park Lane, Lee, is thought to have died on October 23.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has been informed of the incident and is liaising with the school after lab tests confirmed the nature of the disease today.

The disease, which is caused by the same bug which causes meningitis, is currently being treated as an isolated case, according to the HPA.

Early signs and symptoms of the disease can include fever, vomiting and lethargy and can be difficult to distinguish from flu symptoms.

Symptoms typically develop between three to five days after a person has been exposed to the infection.

Dr Rachel Heathcock, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control from the South East London Health Protection Unit, said: "We are working closely with the school that this student attended to provide staff and students with advice and guidance.

"We are establishing all close contacts of the patient who are being offered antibiotics in order to prevent any spread of infection."

"Our thoughts remain with the family at this sad time.

"Although meningococcal disease is rare, parents should remain aware of the symptoms which in the early stages can include a temperature, vomiting, confusion and drowsiness.

"If the infection progresses to cause septicaemia (blood poisoning) it can cause a characteristic rash which will not fade when pressed against the bottom of a glass"

A spokesman for the HPA told News Shopper that as the death was a single case, pupils and staff at the school will not be treated with antibiotics.

The victim's immediate family and close contacts have been treated, however.

The spokesman added a letter has been sent out from the school informing all parents of the incident and asking them to be aware of symptoms.

It is believed the school has no plans to close over the case.

A spokesman for Colfe's School refused to comment on the matter.

  • For more information about the disease, visit hpa.org.uk/infections/topics_az/wfhfactsheets/WFHmeningococcal.htm
  • Do you know the victim? Have you been affected by the scare? Call the newsroom on 01689 885 732.

UPDATE: On October 29 a spokesman for the school contacted News Shopper.

He said: "This is a terrible tragedy and the whole school community is devastated by it.

"At this time our thoughts are with the family and friends."