News

The NHS has launched an information hub for local people to access the latest guidance and details on vaccinations and antibiotics, following an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent.

The hub, which went live on Wednesday, offers practical advice to students, parents or people concerned they've been in close contact with a confirmed case of meningitis.

It comes after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been notified of 18 confirmed and 11 probable cases of invasive meningococcal disease with links to Canterbury, bringing the total to 29. Sadly, two people have died.

In response to the outbreak, the NHS has opened clinics in Ashford, Canterbury, Faversham and Medway to offer precautionary antibiotics and vaccines to eligible people.

So far, more than 10,500 people have received antibiotic treatment, and 4,500 vaccines have been given since the targeted vaccination programme launched on Wednesday. 

Following a government announcement yesterday, the eligibility criteria for preventative antibiotics and vaccines has been expanded. Check your eligibility and your nearest clinic on our website.

Clinics are operating throughout the day but, if you are eligible, please attend before 12noon. This will help us manage the queues and make sure we are able to vaccinate as many people as possible safely. 

Know the signs

Symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can include:

•  a rash that does not 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 (fits)
• confusion or delirium
• extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking.

If you are feeling unwell and unsure or worried please call NHS 111 for advice. If you or someone you know develops symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, seek medical help urgently by going to the nearest Accident and Emergency department or calling 999.

A patient helpline, run by UKHSA, is also available. Patients can phone 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.

Antibiotic protection

Ash Peshen, NHS Kent and Medway's deputy chief medical officer, said: “Thank you to everyone coming forward for meningitis B vaccinations and antibiotics. We have expanded the number of east Kent clinics on today (Friday, 20 March) and over the weekend. Please be patient as we work through the large number of people who are attending.

“The most immediate and effective way for eligible people to protect themselves against meningitis is to take the antibiotic, which is available at several clinics. This is a one-off dose in the form of a tablet.

“While the risk to the general public is low, eligible people need to come forward and take action. Please be reassured that if you need the vaccine, there will be an opportunity for you to receive it. 

“The NHS will be busy while we respond to the outbreak, but it is important that you get the right help when you need it. People should continue to use NHS services as normal and attend appointments unless you are contacted.”

Know the signs of meningitis and seek urgent medical help if you feel unwell. Find more information at www.kmhealthandcare.uk