TWO girl students from the same school have been diagnosed with the potentially fatal meningococcal meningitis.

A 17-year-old from St Mary's RC College in Wallasey has since recovered from the disease and has been released from hospital.

A 16-year-old who has been diagnosed with the more serious meningococcal septicaemia is currently receiving treatment.

Cheshire and Merseyside Health Protection Unit has said that investigations have shown there is no link between the two cases.

Dr Sarah De Martin, locum consultant in communicable disease control from the Cheshire and Merseyside Health Protection Unit, said: "We are working closely with the college to provide staff and students with advice and guidance.

"We have already established all close contacts of both patients and these have been offered antibiotics in order to prevent any further risk of infection."

"Although meningococcal disease is rare, people should remain aware of the symptoms which in the early stages can include a temperature, vomiting, confusion and drowsiness.

"If the infection progresses to cause septicaemia it can cause a characteristic rash which will not fade when pressed against the bottom of a glass."

Tricia McDonagh, deputy head at St. Mary's, said: "Letters have been sent to parents of all pupils at the school.

"Both students are female - one has been released from hospital and is fine, the other is still in hospital, but out of danger."