Teaching aide dies of meningitis

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A staff member at a Hampshire school has died of bacterial meningitis, prompting letters to be sent to parents to reassure them pupils are safe.

Carol English, 55, of Basingstoke, who was a teaching assistant at Preston Candover Primary School, died at the North Hampshire Hospital last week.

The Health Protection Agency sent letters reassuring parents that the illness could not be passed on.

A memorial service is being held at the school on Friday for family and staff.

She was one of the most selfless people I have ever had the privilege of working with Katy HarrisHeadteacher The school has been closed for the day as a mark of respect.

Headteacher Katy Harris told the BBC that she had asked the Health Protection Agency for advice.

"My duty is to safeguard the children as well as the family," she said.

"I was told this type does not pass from person to person and asked the Health Protection Agency to send letters to parents to reassure them."

'Fun, laughter'

She said Ms English was "a very popular and respected [teaching] assistant".

"Carol was not only a friend to us all but a much respected colleague.

"She brought fun, laughter, love and dedication to her role and will be sorely missed by all the adults and children alike.

"Everything she did was for the good of others. She was one of the most selfless people I have ever had the privilege of working with."

Meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by infection with a bacterium or virus, and can cause serious disability or death.