You may be aware that UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), NHS England and local partners are responding to cases of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent.
We know some of our colleagues, partners, service users and patients live in Kent or have family and friends there. This update aims to share links to information and help you know what to do if you’re worried.
Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but serious illness. It can cause meningitis and septicaemia, which can be very serious if people don’t get care quickly.
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that some of these cases are the Men B strain, which is not covered by the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered to teenagers – so knowing the symptoms and seeking early treatment are important.
Symptoms of meningitis can appear in any order. Some may not appear at all. In the early stages, there may not be a rash, or the rash may fade when pressure is applied.
You should get medical help immediately if you’re concerned about yourself or your child.
Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops.
Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis include:
- a high temperature
- cold hands and feet
- vomiting
- confusion
- breathing quickly
- muscle and joint pain
- pale, mottled or blotchy skin (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- spots or a rash (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- headache
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- being very sleepy or difficult to wake
- fits (seizures)
Babies may also:
- refuse feeds
- be irritable
- have a high-pitched cry
- have a stiff body or be floppy or unresponsive
- have a bulging soft spot on the top of their head
Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.
Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.
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.
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