Meningococcal Outbreak in Kent

This evening after school we have received the information below from the Director of Public Health 

RE: Meningococcal Outbreak in Kent

We are writing to you following the recent outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent. Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. 

Meningococcal infection does not spread very easily.  The bacteria can only be passed to others after a long period of close contact.  Although the risk is low, it is good practice for everyone to remain aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, and to know what to do if you or someone you know has these symptoms. One or more of these symptoms may develop and they can appear in any order:

If you or someone in your care develops symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, particularly if symptoms are getting worse, seek medical help urgently:

• at the closest Accident and Emergency Department:
• or by dialling 999

Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.  

Call NHS 111 for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious.  If you've had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again.

For further information please visit UKSHA

Preventative measures are also important. Vaccinations against meningitis include the:

• MenB vaccine – offered to babies aged 8 weeks, followed by a second dose at 12 weeks and a booster at 1 year
• MenACWY vaccine – offered in year 9 but if missed can be offered up to the age of 25.  

For any students who may have missed their MenACWY dose (or any other routine vaccinations) catch-up clinics will be running throughout the Easter break.  Details are available at South London CYP Community Immunisations.

Yours faithfully

Samantha Bennett
 Director of Public Health
 Royal Borough of Greenwich