Updated 2.30pm on Thursday, 19 March. Following an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent UKHSA and NHS Kent and Medway have issued advice to residents.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent. For the latest information on cases visit the UKHSA website.
Investigations have confirmed some of the confirmed cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 7 March prior to becoming unwell.
On Thursday, 19 March, UKHSA announced that the Meningitis B vaccination programme will be extended to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak. You can find the full details on the UKHSA website.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting, and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.
Early symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover, and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs.
If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency.
Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.
Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.
Symptoms
Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
- a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass,
- sudden onset of high fever,
- severe and worsening headache,
- stiff neck,
- vomiting and diarrhoea,
- joint and muscle pain,
- dislike of bright lights,
- very cold hands and feet,
- seizures,
- confusion/delirium,
- extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking.
Young people going to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of who are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.
There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY. It is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives.
Thoughts are with the family and friends
Leader of Medway Council, Cllr Vince Maple, said: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the young people who have very sadly lost their lives to meningitis, and to everyone impacted by the outbreak. As a parent myself, I fully understand the emotions and worry caused by this evolving situation.
“The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which is leading the response, has confirmed that some of the cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 7 March prior to becoming unwell. UKHSA, along with NHS and partner agencies, have put measures in place to limit the spread. This includes encouraging anyone who visited Club Chemistry on 5, 6 or 7 March to collect preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure.
“Although healthcare advice is that the risk to the general public is low, and despite the confirmed cases currently being in the east of Kent, we are mindful this is a rapidly evolving situation. Our public health team in Medway is working to assess any possible risks to residents and settings in Medway. If there are any specific updates affecting those who live, study or work in Medway, we will ensure to update you as soon as possible.
“In the meantime, if you, a family member, friend or neighbour has or develops symptoms of Meningococcal disease please do follow healthcare advice and seek urgent medical advice. For the latest advice and updates, please follow UKHSA and NHS Kent and Medway.”
Further information on meningococcal disease
- Meningitis - NHS
- The Meningitis Research Foundation
0808 800 3344 (24 hours) - Meningitis Now
0808 80 10 388 (9am to 8pm)