UKHSA deputy director Dr Beth Smout said: “It is possible that we will see further cases linked to these latest cases in Weymouth and we understand that there will be concern among students, staff, parents and the local community as we widen our offer of antibiotics and vaccination.
“I’d like to stress that this is an additional precaution, and that we’re following national guidelines to reduce the risk of the infection spreading.
“School pupils and staff should attend school as normal if they remain well.”
The single-dose antibiotics and vaccine will be offered in stages starting with Budmouth Academy and Wey Valley schools.
Pupils at other schools and eligible children in Weymouth who do not attend school will be invited after the weekend.
Young people under 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is able to provide consent.
Smout urged everyone to be alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet.
Septicaemia can also cause a 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,” she said.
