Girl, 7, dies from suspected meningitis

From the archive, first published Wednesday 9th Jul 2003.

HEALTH experts are investigating after a seven-year-old girl died from suspected meningitis.

Emily Rose Davidson was a pupil at Grove Infant School, in Pickersleigh Grove, Malvern.

Emily, who is believed to have contracted meningococcal septicaemia, became ill on Friday, July 4, but died at Worcestershire Royal Hospital the next morning.

Members of her immediate family - of Mountbatten Road, Malvern - have been treated with antibiotics.

Although meningitis can be an infectious and dangerous disease, experts do not consider other children at the school to be at risk.

Headteacher Margaret Lynch paid tribute to the Year Two pupil, describing her as "delightful".

"This is an unbelievable tragedy and our thoughts go out to the family," said Mrs Lynch. "She was a happy little soul, full of fun."

Pupils were told of her death at a special assembly on Monday.

"They're now drawing pictures and messages for her mum and doing things which make them happy," said Mrs Lynch.

"We've sent letters to parents and I feel reassured, having spoken to those in public health, that there's no danger to children."

Dr David Kirrage, of the Health Protection Agency, said an investigation was being carried out into Emily's death.

"We don't yet know whether it's meningitis, but we're treating it as such. We don't expect any more cases linked to this."

Parents were invited to put their questions to Dr Kirrage at a special meeting held at the school last night.

An inquest into Emily's death was due to be opened by Worcestershire's deputy coroner, Tim Sherwood, in Worcester, today.

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