A YOUNGSTER from Burnley has become the latest child to be struck down by suspected meningitis.

East Lancashire Health Authority was notified of the case on Tuesday and the youngster is receiving treatment at Burnley General Hospital.

It is the 20th suspected case of the killer virus to hit East Lancashire since Christmas Eve.

Health officials have also confirmed that the condition of a Blackburn toddler struck down by suspected meningitis has improved.

The three-year-old girl was admitted to Blackburn Royal Infirmary after falling ill.

A spokeswoman for East Lancashire Health Authority said the toddler was "doing very well".

Of the 20 cases of suspected meningitis, 14 are of pre-school age, one at primary school, two at secondary school and three adults.

Five cases are from Blackburn, one from Darwen, four from Burnley, two from Hyndburn, two from Pendle, three from Rossendale and three from Ribble Valley.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph meningitis helpline number is 0990 446644. Enter selection 8219.

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