Ashford Play Nursery Schools in Kent, which has three settings, has held a series of 'Toddle Waddles' to raise money for the Meningitis Trust, and is planning more events before Christmas.
In December 1999, a child at Ashford Play Nursery was taken to hospital by his father and found to have meningitis. Alert nursery staff notified parents when a second child developed a rash a couple of weeks later. The two cases were not linked, but nursery proprietor Val Webb immediately contacted the Kent medical officer and the nursery was turned into a makeshift clinic so everyone who might be at risk could be vaccinated. Both children made a full recovery.
Ms Webb said, 'I'd advise all childcarers to always be on the look-out and don't hesitate if you think a child is showing the slightest of signs - all our first child initially complained of was a sore knee. We were shocked, but found the best way of coping was to have a clinic actually in the nursery. It was comforting for both the children and parents to be in familiar surroundings.
'There were liberal offerings of sweets, and everyone, from staff to children and their parents and siblings, were encouraged to attend. I feel it is important to act quickly, get parents involved and not cause panic. Thankfully our two children made a full recovery and we're very proud that they both started at school this term.'
A Meningitis Trust spokesman said, 'We greatly appreciate the money that has been raised for the Trust. We applaud the quick action of the nursery staff and parent in these cases. Meningitis is the most common infectious cause of death among children under five and it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, and to act quickly.'
The Meningitis Trust offers a range of support services, including counselling and discretionary grants for those affected by the disease. Its helpline is on 0845 6000 800 and its website is at www.meningitis-trust.org.uk.