17/03/2026
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY - Meningitis Outbreak:
If you are concerned about the meningitis outbreak and your immunisation status, you can access your vaccine/immunisation status on the NHS app. If you have previously been vaccinated against the Meningitis ACWY disease, you then have a good protection against these strains. However, there are other meningococcal disease strains so you should remain vigilant with any potential symptoms.
The Meningitis ACWY is a one off vaccine, therefore meaning you will not require a booster vaccine.
What has happened?
Between 13 and 15 March 2026, the UKHSA was made aware of thirteen cases of invasive meningococcal disease.
Sadly, two people are known to have died.
UKHSA, the University of Kent and the local health system are working together to respond to the outbreak and support those affected.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but serious illness caused by meningococcal bacteria, which can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning).
The onset of illness is often sudden, and early diagnosis and treatment are vital.
What are the symptoms to look out for?
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
Confusion or delirium
Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
How meningitis is spread:
Meningitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.
Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through:
sneezing
coughing
kissing
Meningitis is usually caught from people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat but are not ill themselves.
It can also be caught from someone with meningitis, but this is less common.
ADVICE FOR PATIENTS:
We recognise the tragic circumstances of the current meningitis outbreak in Canterbury and we are working closely with the UKHSA and local trusts to ensure GP's and all healthcare professionals remain vigilant for any possible cases in our patients.
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.
Where can I find further information and support?
NHS: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis.
Meningitis Research Foundation: www.meningitis.org | 0808 800 3344 (24 hours).
Meningitis Now: www.meningitisnow.org | 0808 80 10 388 (9am-8pm).
Brewer Street Surgery understands the concerns that many families will be experiencing due to the recent outbreak and our thoughts are with the families effected directly by this outbreak. Please if you are unsure about your vaccine status, check your NHS app. If you require a vaccine and are eligible, please book an appointment with our Practice Nurse, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of vaccinations for our patients.
Thank you for reading and we will continue to update our page as and when we have notifications from UKHSA.
