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The Government is embarking on a meningitis drive in Dorset after three cases of invasive meningococcal disease were discovered there.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it is working with Dorset Council, the NHS and “local partners” to provide antibiotics and vaccinations to pupils in Weymouth.

Over 1,800 students out of 2,500 at Budmouth Academy and Wey Valley Academy have been given antibiotics while 6,500 pupils in years seven to 13 in Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell will be offered antibiotics and vaccinations as a precautionary measure.

The UKHSA said students at All Saints Academy will also be offered antibiotics. Students at Atlantic Academy, Kingston Maurward Academy and Coastland Academy will be invited for antibiotics and vaccinations this week.

“Thankfully we have seen no further cases of meningitis, but it’s still important to recognise the signs and symptoms. Symptoms can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet,” said UKHSA deputy director Beth Smout.

“Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed against a glass. If the disease is suspected, you should seek immediate medical attention as the disease can progress rapidly.”

The chief nursing officer of Dorset HealthCare and Dorset County Hospital Dawn Dawson said: “It has been an amazing multi-agency response, and we continue to work together to make sure that antibiotics and vaccinations reach the remainder of the children and young people in the eligible population this week.”