A Meningitis B outbreak is being treated as a national incident after 20 cases have been identified and two people have died in Kent.
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating the cases, some of which have been confirmed to be Meningitis B, and said it would confirm the strain seen in other cases "when we have the full results".
The majority of young people are not protected against meningitis B unless they have had the vaccine privately, as it was only introduced on the NHS for babies in 2015.
© PA Images via Getty ImagesAn urgent vaccination drive has been rolled out for students at the University of Kent, and students in Canterbury have been advised to take antibiotics as a precautionary measure. But amid fears that the infection could spread further, these are the symptoms to be aware of, according to the NHS.
What is Meningitis?
"Meningitis is the infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord and can be caused by both bacteria and viruses. One particular type of bacteria, which is the most common in the UK, known as meningitis B or “MenB”, commonly lives quietly in your nose or throat without causing any problems," Dr Ravi Lukha, Medical Director at Bupa UK Insurance explains. "However, it can rarely cause more serious, life-threatening disease (referred to as invasive meningococcal disease) if it gets into the blood or spinal fluid."
What are the different strains?
There are five main strains of Meningitis in the UK - MenA, MenB, MenC, MenW and MenY. Of these, Meningitis B is the most common, and also the deadliest. It has been confirmed that at least some of the cases in the Kent outbreak were caused by Meningitis B.
How does it spread?
Dr Lukha says there are a few key ways that meningitis is spread. "It’s often spread through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, kissing and can even spread through sharing vapes and cigarettes. It usually requires close or prolonged contact between people for transmission," he says. "Most people won’t realise they’re carrying these bacteria, but sometimes they can lead to a serious infection. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask for advice or support from a health professional."
What are the symptoms of Meningitis B?
Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and in any order, as the medical expert shares: "Meningitis B can come on very suddenly, so it’s wise to act quickly if you or someone you know isn’t feeling quite right. Watch for symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, vomiting or sensitivity to bright lights. Sometimes people might appear confused, unusually sleepy or develop a rash that doesn’t disappear when you press a glass against it. Not everyone will get a rash, especially in the early stages, so it’s important to trust your instincts.
© Getty Images"In babies, symptoms can be a bit different and might include being unusually irritable, not feeding well, vomiting or a soft spot on their head that looks like it’s bulging. You don’t need all of the symptoms for it to be meningitis but always speak to a GP if you’re concerned."
Who is most at risk?
Anyone can get meningitis, but some groups are more vulnerable than others. "Babies, young children, teenagers and young adults are especially at risk, as the bacteria tend to spread more easily where people live or mix closely together, such as shared halls, busy classrooms or social gatherings," Dr Lukha says.
"Recent outbreaks in the UK have shown just how quickly meningitis B can move through student communities, so it’s wise to stay alert and look out for yourself and those around you. If you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for support or advice."
The vaccine
There are vaccinations to protect against Meningitis B, but these were only introduced on the NHS to babies from 2015, which is why many teenagers and young adults are more vulnerable. Since autumn 2015 the MENACWY vaccine has also been offered to school children at around 14 years of age. Any young person who missed this vaccine at school is eligible to receive it up to the age of 25.
"It’s reassuring to know that many cases of meningitis B can be prevented through vaccination. In the UK, the MenB vaccine is routinely given to babies as part of the childhood immunisation schedule, offering protection against the most common strain. However, since vaccines don’t cover every type of meningitis, it’s important to stay aware of the symptoms and act swiftly if you ever feel concerned," says Dr Lukha.
© Getty ImagesTreatment
"If you suspect that you or someone close to you might have meningitis B, the first step is to seek urgent medical attention straight away," the doctor advises. "People with bacterial meningitis are usually treated in hospital and are given antibiotics via a drip. Early detection and the right care provide the best chance of recovery, so if you do notice any worrying symptoms, don’t delay in getting help."
Long-term complications
When treated quickly, many people who have bacterial meningitis will make a full recovery. However, others may experience serious long-term complications such as hearing or vision loss, epilepsy and problems with memory and concentration.
