PRESTON schoolchildren are queuing today (Thursday March 5) for a mass meningitis immunisation scheme after two pupils were struck down with the deadly bug.

More than 800 children and staff at Kirkham Grammar School have been invited to take part in the programme after a Preston girl and a boy from Blackpool were taken to hospital suffering symptoms of the disease. The girl was rushed to intensive care at Royal Preston Hospital on Friday (February 28) but is now recovering.

The victims are both from the same class in Year Nine, but consultants have not linked the two cases.

Pupils from the same year were offered antibiotics and information sessions over the weekend. Headmaster Barrie Stacey of the Kirkham school immediately issued letters to parents offering them and their children the chance to be immunised.

Mr Stacey, who volunteered to have the first jab, said: "We've had a good response.

"They are understandably concerned but have been marvellous and supportive. We're doing everything we can to guard against this happening again."

Signs of the bug include a dislike of bright lights, sickness, a very stiff neck and a rash. Concerned parents should contact their GP or take their child to hospital.

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