Outbreak of meningitis sees warning issued

HCaEth: Families in Tayside and Fife given advice after children at Scout jamboree in Japan contract disease

A meningitis outbreak at a Scout camp has seen an urgent health warning being issued to children in Tayside and Fife.

Cases of the potentially deadly illness involving children who attended the World Scout Jamboree in Japan have been recorded in Scotland and Sweden.

Families of attendees at the global gathering have been urged to seek medical help if they develop symptoms which include neck stiffness, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches and vomiting.

Three children from the north of Scotland and a parent of a child have contracted the illness, as well as three Swedish Scouts.

The East of Scotland unit sent 27 Scouts and nine Guides from Dundee, Angus and Fife to Japan. None of the area’s Scouts have been affected.

Hannah Falconer, Scout leader for the east and south east Scotland units, said: “The whole of the UK contingent have had emails alerting them to look out for symptoms but the likelihood of having it is now slim, as the incubation period is between four and 10 days so those who have it should know by now.

“A few members in my unit have been ill with coughs, high temperatures, sore heads etcetera, but this is mostly gone now.

“It just happens to be a consequence of 35,000 people living in very close proximity for 10 days, and the same thing happens when children go back to school and are surrounded by lots of people again.”

The Courier understands all the Scottish and Swedish victims are recovering well after receiving treatment.

The World Organisation of the Scout Movement stated: “Whilst these cases are not life threatening, we are truly saddened that this has happened and our thoughts are with the young people concerned and their families at this worrying time.

“We understand that the health authorities in both countries have issued health advisory notices, informing Scouts who were recently in Japan to be aware of the symptoms.

“In Sweden, the health authorities have asked those who attended the Jamboree to seek immediate preventive treatment from their doctor or the nearest healthcare provider as a precaution.”