Thursday, 19 March 2026

Meningococcal B Advice for patients

As some of you will be aware, there has been a recent outbreak of Meningococcal B disease in the South East of England. Most cases involve students from the University of Kent and local secondary schools.

The meningococcus virus causes meningitis and/or septicaemia (blood infection).

It is spread by close, prolonged, or intimate contact.

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 mistaken for other illnesses, such as a cold, the flu, or a hangover, and students are particularly at risk of missing 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.

With regards to vaccinations:

The Meningitis B vaccine was rolled out to infants in 2015, meaning those affected by the current outbreak would be too old to have been eligible for it. A targeted vaccination programme will begin, prioritising the student residents of Canterbury Campus Halls. 

The UK Health Security Agency will continue to assess ongoing risk to other populations, and the programme may be extended.

Children remain eligible to receive the Meningitis B vaccine on the routine immunisation schedule until they reach 2 years of age.

Some parents may opt to make alternative arrangements to have their child immunised with the Meningitis B  vaccine if their child does not meet the eligibility criteria for the routine programme. i.e Privately. However, please be aware that, given the current outbreak, you may experience difficulty due to the demand for both appointments and the vaccine stock.

Health Protection Teams are actively conducting contact tracing to identify close contacts of all confirmed and probable cases and to ensure that advice and antibiotic prophylaxis are provided in accordance with national guidance.

Sister Elaine Cameron

Practice Nurse/Nurse Prescriber