The deaths of a 10-year-old girl and a nursery teacher at the same school are completely unconnected according to Government health experts.

Aragon Primary School nursery teacher Barbara Pearce died last Monday, December 1, from an infection called Group A Streptococcus which in rare cases can cause Meningitis.

The probe by Public Health England (PHE) looked at whether her death was linked to that of Maddie Thompson who died on October 23 in mysterious circumstances.

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Barbara Pearce, centre, performs with the am-dram group at the school

Her mother Sally Thompson, who lives in Sutton, said today that an investigation by the coroner has established she definitely suffered from sepsis - a common and potentially life-threatening condition triggered by an infection, but the exact cause of the youngster’s death is still being investigated.

In a letter sent to parents at the school in Aragon Road, Morden, on Tuesday, December 2, PHE said there have been three cases of viral Meningitis in staff and pupils this term.

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Barbara Pearce, left, with her daughter

That type is very common and usually only causes mild symptoms - although it can occasionally be serious or even fatal - whereas bacterial or meningococcal Meningitis is very dangerous and always needs urgent treatment.

It is understood at least one parent has taken their children out of the school after concerns over the disease.

A PHE spokeswoman said there was no public health risks for staff or children at the school and it is advising the school and Merton Council.

Mrs Pearce was a well-loved member of staff and had worked at the school for about 20 years. Her death came as a shock to the school community.

Mrs Pearce was a dedicated member of the amateur dramatics group at the school.

Speaking about Mrs Pearce, Maddie’s mother Mrs Thompson said: "She was lovely.

"She was very thoughtful and well-loved and respected by everyone.

"Maddie was in her nursery class but this was a long time ago."

Gill Wilson, headteacher at Aragon School said: "The school community has come together to provide mutual support following the sad and recent loss of one of our staff.

"This tragic news comes not long after the passing of one of our students which also came as a shock. Our thoughts go out to their family and friends at this very difficult time."

Cleo Rooney, consultant in Communicable Disease Control at PHE’s South West London Health Protection Team, said: ‘‘PHE is aware of the death on Monday, December 1 of a member of staff at a school in Merton, who died of Group A streptococcal septicaemia.

"Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family at this very sad time.

"Very sadly, a child at the same school died in October.

"There is no reason to think that the two deaths are connected in any way."

The coroner’s office confirmed an investigation was being carried out into Maddie’s death.

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•    Meningitis and septicaemia often happen together - it is vital to know all the signs and symptoms
•    The early signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can be similar to flu and include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and muscle pain.
•    The more specific signs and symptoms include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash which doesn’t fade under pressure.
•    There are an estimated 3,200 cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia each year in the UK.
•    If you suspect someone may have either condition trust your instincts and get immediate medical help. 
Find out more at www.MeningitisNow.org or call 01453 768 000. Freephone helpline 0808 80 10 388.