Schoolchildren have been told not to worry after a West Sussex pupil was admitted to hospital with suspected bacterial meningitis.

The youngster, who attends Weald School, Billingshurst, was admitted to hospital at the weekend.

Bacterial meningitis can cause brain damage or death. It is a less common but more serious version of viral meningitis.

The pupil is believed to be making good progress.

A single case of the disease is not a threat to other pupils as the germs can only survive outside the body for a few seconds.

Headteacher Peter May said the school held a special assembly for all students before they went home on Monday to make sure they were informed but not frightened.

The Weald has circulated National Meningitis Trust information leaflets to parents.

The symptoms of bacterial meningitis include a severe headache, vomiting, fever, joint pain, drowsiness and confusion, a stiff neck and aversion to bright light.

A representative of the National Meningitis Trust said: "It is an infectious disease but it is not highly contagious.

"Pupils would have had to have had very close contact, such as kissing or being coughed on by the infected person, to be at risk."

Anyone who suspects they may have the symptoms of bacterial meningitis should contact their GP.

The National Meningitis Trust can be contacted on 0845 6000800.