18/03/2026
There is currently an ongoing outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease - a form of meningitis - in Kent. Meningitis is a serious condition where the protective layers (meninges) around the brain and spinal cord become inflamed.
It has many causes, such as different germs, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In the UK, most cases are due to bacteria or viruses. Some of the bacteria that cause meningitis can also lead to septicaemia (blood poisoning), and both conditions can result in sepsis, which is life-threatening.
Although anyone can get meningitis, it’s most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. It needs to be treated quickly so it is important to know the signs and symptoms which can happen in any order and may not all be present:
Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not happen at all. For meningitis, common signs and symptoms include:
*fever
*a very bad headache (this alone is not a reason to get medical help)
*vomiting
*stiff neck
*dislike of bright lights
*rash
*confusion, delirium
*severe sleepiness, losing consciousness
*fits
Call 999 immediately or go to your nearest A&E if you think you or someone in your care could have meningitis, septicaemia or sepsis. Trust your instincts and do not wait for all symptoms or for a rash to develop. People with meningitis, septicaemia or sepsis can become seriously unwell very quickly.
Call NHS 111 if you're unsure whether it's serious.
