A teacher at Strood Academy has contracted a potentially deadly infection.

Officials confirmed the member of staff is being treated in hospital after being diagnosed with bacterial meningitis within the last 24 hours.

A statement on the school's website said: "As you will appreciate this is a serious condition and as a result the school has taken medical advice and notified the various authorities so that they are aware of the outbreak.

"Firstly it is important to reassure you thatadditional outbreaks are highly unlikely as the condition is generally passed in saliva.

"As a result it is normally only immediate family and partners that need to be seen by doctors and vaccinated.

"For the wider school population we have been advised that no specific precautions are necessary, but it is essential that everyone is aware of the symptoms and they seek immediate medical advice should they experience them."

School officials say meningitis and septicaemia often happen together so has urged people to be aware of all the signs and symptoms, which can appear in any order.

• Fever, cold hands and feet
• Vomiting
• Drowsy, difficult to wake
• Confusion and irritability
• Severe muscle pain
• Pale, blotchy skin. Spots/rash (checked by the glass test)
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Dislike bright lights
• Convulsions/seizures

Anyone concerned about possible symptoms is advised to call the NHS helpline on 111 or 999 if someone is ill and is getting worse.

The statement added: "As you will appreciate at this time of year there are a number of other less serious illnesses that may cause some of these symptoms so it is important that everyone remains vigilant and trust their instincts.

"The school will continue to operate as normal and there is no need to stay away from school unless you are suffering from the above symptoms.

"We appreciate that this news may be worrying for everyone so pleasefeel free to contact the school if you have any concerns.

"Please note that all students will be briefed in school today and we will be talking separately to any students who may have been in the same classroom as the teacher prior to him becoming ill to make sure they are extra vigilant of any symptoms.

"If you wish to talk to someone to learn more about meningitis we would recommend calling Meningitis Now who are a charity that support those suffering or affected by meningitis.

"You can contact them on 0808 8010 388 (9am-5pm Monday -Friday).

"In the meantime our thoughts and best wishes are with our member of staff and their family during this difficult time."