FORTY-SEVEN nursery children have been given an emergency dose of antibiotics after two toddlers at a Ramsbottom playgroup contracted meningitis within days of each other.

The two children, who attend Ladybird Nursery on Buchanan Street, are recovering after being struck down with the meningoccocal form of the condition - the most dangerous strain.

The first child was diagnosed with having meningitis on July 18 and spent a week in hospital, but is now recovering at home.

The other youngster was rushed to hospital two days later and is recovering in Fairfield Hospital.

Mrs Anne Rees-Williams who runs the private nursery, said: "We were already on alert, and once the other child complained of not feeling well we immediately contacted the child's parents who had already been told about the other case." Mrs Rees-Williams stressed: "Obviously parents were worried and anxious but there is no risk to the other children and staff who will be been given antibiotics."

Mrs Wendy Read, of Moorcroft Edenfield, whose son Jack attends the nursery, said: "Of course we were worried when we first heard, but the nursery has kept us informed and reassured us that other children are in no danger."

Bury and Rochdale Health Authority, however, have advised all children to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the illness. They are vomiting, high temperature, headaches, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness, painful joints, fits and a skin rash which does not go white when pressure is applied.

Dr Sheila Will, consultant in public health, said: "Cases of meningitis are unusual at this time of year but I would ask that all parents would remain vigilant of the signs and symptoms."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.