A Balclutha teenager with meningitis remains in serious but not life-threatening condition in Dunedin Hospital, Balclutha doctor Branko Sijnja said today.
South Otago has been in the grips of a meningitis outbreak but the worst appears to be over without any fatality.
The 17-year-old South Otago High School pupil was in intensive care unit and seemed to be recovering but was readmitted to the unit yesterday after his condition worsened.
"He has a wee complication. It's a precaution more than a life-threatening situation but it's still serious," said Dr Sijnja, who works at Balclutha Hospital.
"Another 17-year-old spent last night in Balclutha Hospital and he has finished his treatment and will be discharged today.
"It looks like this outbreak has been contained. So far it looks pretty good," Dr Sijnja told NZPA.
Another 15-year-old Balclutha student admitted to hospital with on Monday was making good progress.
All three youths had attended the high school's formal ball on Friday but the chances of more cases of meningitis among pupils were reducing as time passed, Dr Sijnja said.
Up to 50 people who were identified as being in contact with the three teenagers had been offered antibiotics for treatment.
Otago has a meningitis rate twice the national average.
Three Southland youngsters have also fallen ill with the meningococcal disease in the last few days.
Southland medical officer of health Derek Bell said the children were recovering.
- NZPA
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