A TEENAGER remains in a stable condition at Great Western Hospital with meningitis.

Yesterday health chiefs confirmed that the former St Joseph's pupil has bacterial meningococcal the most serious strain of the bug.

Wiltshire Health Protection Team, based in Devizes, raised the alarm last week after it was revealed that the lad has two younger siblings at the school.

Both were later found to be clear of the disease and it is understood that they're attending lessons as usual.

As a precaution headteacher Peter Wells had letters to be sent to parents of the 1,200 school reminding them of the symptoms.

Laurence Knight, spokesman for Wiltshire Health Protection Agency, which deals with outbreaks of infectious diseases, said: "The Wiltshire Health Protection Team has been looking at this case and liaising closely with the family.

"In cases like this there is a risk of further transmission of the bug to others particularly family members. But after discussions with the school we have not advised any further action."

There are two strains of the bug viral and bacterial. The latter is considered the most dangerous.

Mr Knight warned against complacency, however. He urged Swindonians to be on the lookout for symptoms.

Although he could not provide accurate figures, he said that two or three suspected cases of meningitis a week in Wiltshire is not uncommon for this time of the year.

"We do see a peak in the number of cases at this time of the year," he said.

"The bug spreads through droplets caused by prolonged coughing, sneezing and kissing.

"This is obviously a serious situation for the teenager's family but we're not treating this as a major outbreak."

Chris Birdsall, hospital spokesman, said: "We can confirm that the person is in a stable condition.

"But because of patient confidentiality we are unable to go into any more detail."

Signs to watch for

IN the early stages, signs and symptoms can be similar to many other winter illnesses like flu.

Symptoms include: fever, headache, nausea, stiff neck, dislike of bright light and general tiredness.

A bruising-type rash that does not disappear when pressed under a glass tumbler can also develop.

Anyone in any doubt should contact their GP surgery immediately.