Meningitis Advice
Dear Parents / Carers : you will have seen on all forms of media that there is an outbreak of Meningitis in Kent. Greenwich Health Board has issued a letter to all schools - and we copy it here for you so you have the latest advice.
We at school are ensuring our hygiene protocols are followed but remind you to please monitor your child and family incase of symptoms so we can ensure the safety of everyone in our community. Thank you.
Meningococcal Outbreak in Kent
We are writing to you following the recent outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent. Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. We have outlined below information from the UK Health Security Agency about the signs and symptoms of Meningococcal disease which you can share with your staff and student body.
Meningococcal infection does not spread very easily.
The bacteria can only be passed to others after a long period of close contact. Although the risk is low, it is good practice for everyone to remain aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, and to know what to do if you or someone you know has these symptoms.
One or more of these symptoms may develop and they can appear in any order:
- High temperature
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhoea and stomach cramps
- Joint or muscle pain
- Cold hands and feet
- Severe headache
- Pale blotchy skin
- Stiff neck
- Confusion and/or irritability
- Dislike of bright light
- Drowsiness or difficult to wake
- Rash or bruising rash
- Seizures or fits
If you or someone in your care develops symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, particularly if symptoms are getting worse, seek medical help urgently:
at the closest Accident and Emergency Department or by dialing 999
Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.
Call NHS 111 for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious.
If you've had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again.
For further information please visit UKSHA
Preventative measures are also important. Vaccinations against meningitis include the:
MenB vaccine – offered to babies aged 8 weeks, followed by a second dose at 12 weeks and a booster at 1 year
MenACWY vaccine – offered in year 9 but if missed can be offered up to the age of 25.
For any students who may have missed their MenACWY dose (or any other routine vaccinations) catch-up clinics will be running throughout the Easter break. Details are available at South London CYP Community Immunisations.
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