18/03/2026
MENINGITIS OUTBREAK – IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS FROM THE IVERS PRACTICE.
Please note we are currently experiencing high volumes of calls and emails.
We are unable to offer the Meningitis B vaccine to non-eligible age groups or children who did not receive this as part of their routine childhood immunisations before the programme was introduced in 2015.
What’s happening?
• There is a meningococcal disease outbreak in Kent.
• UKHSA is working to contain the outbreak and is giving prophylaxis antibiotics to close contacts.
• No new advice has been issued about accessing the MenB vaccine for the wider public.
What protection does my secondary-aged child already have?
• Children receive Hib/MenC at 1 year of age, which provides early protection.
• In Year 9, young people are offered the MenACWY vaccine.
• MenACWY provides protection during the later school years and into college/university, where risk is higher.
• This means most secondary-aged children already have strong protection against the meningococcal strains of greatest concern in teens and young adults
Know the Symptoms of Meningitis - Seek urgent medical help if you notice:
• Rash that doesn’t fade with pressure
• High fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting
• Cold hands or feet
• Confusion
Reduce the Risk
• Wash hands regularly
• Don’t share drinks, vapes, or cigarette
Thank you for taking the time to read.
