Public Health Agency officials in Northern Ireland are investigating a probable case of meningococcal disease in a 16-year-old pupil at Bloomfield Collegiate School in Belfast. The pupil is receiving hospital treatment.

Dr Jillian Johnston of the Public Health Agency confirmed the case has no connection to the meningitis outbreak in south east England. Officials completed public health measures, including contact tracing. Household members identified as close contacts received antibiotics as a precaution.

The agency worked with the school to notify parents and guardians. Guidance was sent to GP out-of-hours services and emergency departments.

Public Health Agency officials are attending UK-wide meetings on the England incident. No evidence shows spread beyond south east England.

The agency states no elevated risk exists for the wider Northern Ireland population. Officials recommend monitoring for meningitis symptoms and seeking prompt medical care if symptoms appear.

Philip McGuigan, chair of Stormont's Health Committee, plans to contact Health Minister Mike Nesbitt for information on contingency plans.