A meningitis outbreak has been linked to a nursery after two children developed the infection.

A spokeswoman for NHS Tayside confirmed a "small number of cases" of the illness have been linked to the Butterflies Nursery in Emmock Woods, Dundee.

Treatment is being offered to all children connected to the nursery as a precaution and advice is being given to parents.

The NHS spokeswoman said: "NHS Tayside Health Protection Team is investigating a small number of confirmed cases of meningococcal disease with links to a nursery in Dundee.

"Family and close contacts of the cases have been identified and appropriate advice and treatment has been offered to them.

"In addition, as a precaution, the parents of all the children at the nursery have been contacted and treatment offered for the children and staff.

"Meningococcal infection is an uncommon illness. It has two main types, meningitis and septicaemia.

"Typical symptoms can include fever, severe headache, the appearance of a blotchy rash, aches and pains, dislike of bright lights and neck stiffness.

"The symptoms can vary and are not necessarily all present or present at the same time.

"The risk to members of the local community or wider population is low and children can continue to go to nursery or school as normal."

The nursery has not been closed as a result of the outbreak and the spokeswoman said this was "in line with national guidance".

She added: "This is because the children at the nursery have all been offered chemoprophylaxis to reduce the risk of infection and prevent further spread of the bug.

"The parents and carers have also been provided with information on meningococcal infection and advice on what they should do if they have any concerns."

Anyone whose child develops symptoms is asked to contact their GP or NHS 24 on 111 outside normal GP hours.

For more information about meningococcal infection, the Meningitis Research Foundation can be contacted on 080 8800 3344 or via the website at www.meningitis.org.