16/03/2026
⚠️ Important health update – Meningitis vaccination ⚠️
We are sharing this recent article from Meningitis Now following the tragic news of two deaths linked to meningitis in Kent. Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected.
Meningitis can develop very quickly and can be serious. Vaccination is one of the key ways to protect against certain types of meningitis. Many people, particularly teenagers and young adults, may have received meningitis vaccinations at school – but some may be unsure if they are fully up to date.
✅ If you are unsure whether you have had the meningitis vaccination, or believe it may have been missed, please contact the practice.
Our team can check records and advise on whether any vaccinations are needed.
If you or someone you are caring for develops symptoms such as a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, neck stiffness, confusion, or a rash that does not fade when pressed, seek urgent medical help immediately.
Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the deaths following the reported outbreak of meningitis in Kent. Our heartfelt thoughts are with their families, friends and the surrounding communities at this incredibly difficult time.
We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can include a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, cold hands and feet, limb pain, and, in some cases, a rash that does not fade under pressure.
Symptoms can appear suddenly and be easily mistaken for flu, a heavy cold or even a hangover, so it is vital that anyone who is concerned seeks urgent medical help immediately.
At Meningitis Now, we are here for anyone who needs information, guidance or someone to talk to during what can be a frightening and uncertain time. You can find more information from https://bit.ly/4rAHm1x or by calling our nurse-led Helpline on 0808 80 10 388, open Monday to Friday.
You can read our statement on the developing news of this outbreak here: https://bit.ly/4rEYXp3
[Image description: Navy square with the text "Breaking news" in orange text on a white banner and "Meningitis outbreak" in navy text on a white banner, with the Meningitis Now logo in the corner.]