Officials across the West Midlands are urging people to verify their immunisation records and be alert to warning signs after a meningitis crisis emerged in Kent.
Certain students are receiving antibiotics and jabs as health experts respond to an outbreak of meningitis B in Canterbury.
NHS organisations in Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country have stressed the need to identify symptoms, adopt preventive precautions and confirm vaccination schedules are current.
Earlier this week, numerous meningitis cases were verified among young people who had frequented a nightclub in Kent. Unfortunately, two individuals have died, with more than ten additional cases identified and further potential cases being examined.
The UK Health Security Agency’s latest briefing indicated that by 5pm on 18 March, 15 laboratory-confirmed cases had been recorded and 12 reported instances remained under review, bringing the combined figure to 27.
Regrettably, two people have passed away, with no additional fatalities reported since the previous bulletin.
Antibiotic prophylaxis continues to be administered to University of Kent enrolments, to anyone who attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 7 March, and to close associates of those with confirmed or suspected meningococcal illness.
The Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull Integrated Care Board noted that multiple vaccinations exist:
MenB jab – given at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, only accessible until age 2
MenACWY – delivered via schools to 13-14 year olds (Year 9), accessible up to 25 years
6-in-1 vaccine – administered at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, accessible until age 10. Offers defence against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), a bacterial infection capable of causing meningitis
MMR/MMRV jab – first dose at 12 months, second dose timing dependent on child’s birth date. Accessible until 25 years. Protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox, conditions that can result in meningitis complications
Pneumococcal jab – given to babies at 16 weeks, with a booster at 12 months. Guards against pneumococcal bacteria, a possible cause of meningitis.
A representative for Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull ICBs commented that awareness had been raised regarding reports of meningitis cases connected to a university in Kent.
Partnership working continues with NHS colleagues and public health teams to promote understanding of meningitis symptoms, infection control strategies and the significance of immunisation.
Vaccines including MenACWY and MenB are secure, dependable and provided without charge on the NHS for those who qualify. Those who are eligible, or parents of eligible youngsters, should confirm vaccinations are current.
Anyone with concerns about symptoms should obtain medical assistance without delay by contacting a GP, telephoning NHS 111 or calling 999 in critical situations. Recognising indicators and commencing prompt treatment can save lives.
Additional information about meningitis and protective measures is available via Meningitis – Vaccination – NHS.