18/03/2026
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS:
MENINGITIS UPDATE FROM THREEWAYS SURGERY
We are currently experiencing a high volume of phone calls, triage requests, and emails. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
What’s happening?
There is currently an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working to contain the outbreak and is providing preventative (prophylactic) antibiotics to individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed cases, within the Kent area.
AT PRESENT, THERE IS NO NEW GUIDANCE REGARDING ACCESS TO THE MENB VACCINE FOR THE WIDER PUBLIC.
MenB Vaccine Availability:
We are unable to offer the MenB vaccine to:
· Children outside the eligible age groups
· Children who did not receive it as part of the routine NHS childhood immunisation programme introduced in 2015
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) continues to review national data and emerging risks.
Currently, there are no plans to extend the MenB vaccine beyond the existing schedule.
Protection for Secondary School Children
Babies are routinely offered the MenB vaccine on the NHS:
· First dose at 8 weeks
· Second dose at 12 weeks
· Booster dose at 1 year
Most secondary school-aged children already have good protection against meningococcal disease:
· At age 1: Hib/MenC vaccine provides early protection
· In Year 9: MenACWY vaccine is offered
· MenACWY helps protect during later school years and into college or university, when the risk is higher
Know the Symptoms - Seek Urgent Medical Help If You Notice:
· A rash that does not fade when pressed
· High fever
· Severe headache
· Stiff neck
· Vomiting
· Cold hands or feet
· Confusion
How to Reduce the Risk
· Wash hands regularly
· Avoid sharing drinks, vapes, or ci******es