We are receiving queries from concerned patients and parents regarding the meningitis B outbreak in Kent. Here is some of the latest information:
Response to the outbreak
Patients who are still in Kent will be picked up by the mass treatment sites at the university and will be provided with antibiotic prophylaxis, but this may not cover all those who have returned home.
There is further info on the relevant ICB website:
Meningitis outbreak in the Canterbury area and a patient helpline, run by UKHSA, is now available. Patients can call 0344 225 3861, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, if they have no symptoms but are concerned, they have been in contact with a confirmed case or have a general enquiry.
Cases of invasive meningococcal disease notified in Kent – GOV.UK
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (the meninges), usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
It can be very serious if not treated quickly and can cause life-threatening sepsis and permanent damage to the brain or nerves. It can affect anyone but most commonly babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.
Symptoms of meningitis include:
- high temperature (fever)
- vomiting
- severe and worsening headache
- rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (please note a rash may not always appear)
- stiff neck
- photophobia (dislike of bright lights)
- drowsiness (extreme sleepiness) or unresponsiveness (difficulty waking)
- seizures (fits)
- very cold hands and feet
These symptoms may appear suddenly, in any order, worsen quickly, and/or may not all come on at once.
How can I protect against it?
The current outbreak is caused by meningitis B (menB).
Babies have been offered vaccination against MenB as part of their routine vaccination schedule since 2015. We recommend all parents to get their babies fully vaccinated.
Vaccinations offer some protection against certain causes of meningitis. These include:
- MenB vaccine is offered to babies aged 8 weeks, followed by a second dose at 12 weeks and a booster at 1 year MenB vaccine cannot currently be given to anyone over the age of 2 years, unless immunocompromised due to lack of spleen or splenic dysfunction GP surgeries are not allowed to offer MenB vaccine privately
- 6-in-1 vaccine (DTaP/IPV/Hib/Hep B) is offered to children at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks and 18 months
- Pneumococcal vaccine is 2 doses offered to babies at 16 weeks and 1 year, and a single dose offered to adults aged 65 or over
- MMRV vaccine (measles/mumps/rubella/chickenpox) is offered to children at 12 months and 18 months
- MenACWY vaccine (MenA, C, W and Y) is offered to teenagers, sixth formers and ‘fresher’ students going to university for the first time
GP surgeries can administer MenACWY vaccine to any under 25 year old, who was previously invited or who missed it at school, upon request.
Parents of school age children should contact the School Aged Immunisation Service (Intrahealth). Derbyshire School Aged (Immunisation Service) | Intrahealth
Phone: 03333 583 397 Option 5
Children with incomplete vaccination can be offered vaccination in line with current guidance (PDF).