Two-Year-Old Dies After Doctors Miss Meningitis Recurrence

A two-year-old girl, Leila Normington, tragically died after contracting meningitis for a second time, with her parents alleging their fears were ignored by medical staff. Initially diagnosed with a respiratory infection on July 22, 2023, after developing a fever, Leila was sent home from Harrogate District Hospital. Her parents noted she was suffering seizures, but their concerns were reportedly downplayed.

The following day, Leila was readmitted after her condition worsened, but staff continued to treat her for a respiratory infection. She experienced two seizures in front of her family, a distressing event during which her father was asked to time them on a mobile phone due to a lack of a working clock.

Doctors eventually suspected meningitis and sepsis as Leila's condition rapidly declined. A CT scan on July 24 revealed a severe brain injury, and she was transferred to a hospice, where she passed away on July 25, 2023. A post-mortem confirmed meningitis as the cause of death.

A patient safety report from Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged "missed opportunities" in Leila's treatment, including a potential delay in admitting her and starting antibiotics. The trust could not determine if her death was avoidable. The family is pursuing legal action, while the trust has denied liability.