‘Best feeling in the world’ for Derbyshire mum after tot son survives meningitis scare

Mum Elysia Downings, 25, said her son Oscar, two, was given antibiotics after a girl died of meningitis in his class on Wednesday, October 21.

Oscar, who attends Lenthall Nursery School, in Dronfield, initially seemed fine but began getting suspicious symptoms on Monday.

Mum Elysia Downings, 28, said it's the "best feeling in the world" after her two-year-old son Oscar survived a meningitis scare.

Elysia, who lives in Buxton, said his breathing became irregular and he began to get a temperature.

She said she took Oscar to the doctors, who immediately called an ambulance.

The tot was taken to Stepping Hill Hospital, in Stockport, where he underwent tests and was put on a drip.

Elysia said: “In a situation like that you stay strong because you have to. But Oscar was extremely distressed and it was very traumatising.”

A few nervous days followed for mum and son, but on Wednesday doctors confirmed Oscar was not at risk.

Elysia said: “It is the best feeling in the world knowing my little hero is going to be fine. Meningitis is one of the biggest fears for every parent and I am so relieved now.”

She added: “My heart and sympathies go out to the family of the little girl who lost her life.”

Public Health England confirmed there has only been two cases of meningitis in Derbyshire and the outbreak is now contained.

A spokesperson said all teachers and pupils in Oscar’s class have been immunised.