Meningitis Now shares resources and offers support amid outbreak

Following a meningitis outbreak in Kent, PIF member Meningitis Now has shared its trusted information and resources. The charity has offered information, guidance or someone to talk to "during what can be a frightening and uncertain time". Meningitis Now has also put together an updated FAQs sheet following what the charity described as "an unprecedented number of enquiries around the MenB and MenACWY vaccine". 

The PIF member has shared how schools and education settings can download lesson plans and resources to educate young people about meningitis. It said its nurse-led helpline is available to answer questions and provide information and reassurance.

The signs and symptoms

Posting on Facebook this week, Meningitis Now says it is vital that people are aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis so they know to seek urgent medical help if someone is ill and getting worse. The charity added: "We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis... 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."

The charity's Facebook posts also include graphics featuring the signs and symptoms of meningitis. It has used social media to share information about what meningitis vaccines are available in the UK, highlighting a gap in coverage for MenB among teens. 

Vaccination campaign

Meningitis Now's ongoing No Plan B for MenB campaign calls for three things:

• The MenB vaccination to be given to all those at most risk of disease.
• A MenB booster programme to protect adolescents by 2030.
• Availability of the MenB vaccination on the high street at a fair price.

Meningitis Now's chief executive, Dr Tom Nutt, said the charity was deeply saddened by the deaths following the reported outbreak of meningitis in Kent. 

Dr Nutt has reiterated that meningitis is a relatively rare disease but added: "There are gaps in the NHS immunisation schedule, particularly around MenB. We are campaigning for the MenB vaccination to be made more widely available to those at risk, especially teenagers and young adults. We welcome the news from Wes Streeting that he is asking UKHSA to re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines and that a targeted MenB vaccine programme will be offered to students in Canterbury."

Information and support

Meningitis Now's nurse-led Helpline can be reached by calling 0808 80 10 388 or emailing [javascript protected email address] 

Read more about the signs and symptoms of meningitis on the Meningitis Now website here.

Find out more about the charity's No Plan B for MenB campaign here.

Read the latest statement from Meningitis Now's chief executive, Dr Tom Nutt, here.

Follow the Meningitis Now Facebook page here.