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MENINGITIS B OUTBREAK

We are receiving queries from concerned patients and parents regarding the meningitis B outbreak in Kent. Here we collect some of the latest information.

Response to the outbreak

Patients who are still in Kent will be contacted by the mass treatment sites at the University and provided with appropriate antibiotic treatment.

Concerned patients, those who have been in contact a with a confirmed case or those with a general enquiry may ring a dedicate helpline – UKHSA Helpline 03442253861 this helpline is open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm. There is also updates via the Kent & Medway ICB

Practices in Derbyshire are NOT authorised to provide outbreak response but there will be a local provider who will able to offer this service. The details are being confirmed and will be shared as soon as possible.

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (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 permanant 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)
  • Vomitting
  • headache
  • Rash that does NOT fade when a glass is rolled over it (a rash may not always appear)
  • Stiff neck
  • Photophobia (dislike of bright lights)
  • drowsiness or unresponsiveness
  • seizures (fits)

Please see the NHS meningitis page & NHS sepsis page.

What if I suspect meningitis?

  • Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.
  • Do not wait for all the symptoms (or a rash) to appear. If you are worried about meningitis, do not delay.

How can I protect against it?

  • The current outbreak is caused by meningitis B.
  • Babies have been routinely offered vaccination against MenB as part of their NHS vaccination schedule since 2015. We recommend all parents to have their babies fully vaccinated.
  • Vaccinations offer some protection against certain causes of meningitis. The include:
  • MenB Vaccine is offered to babies ages 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
  • GPs are prohibited from offering MenB vaccine privately.
  • MenACWY Vaccine is offered to teenagers, sixth formers and first year university students – GP surgeries can administer MenACWY vaccine to any under 25 year old on request (as a part of ROUTINE catch up)