In a follow-up on the meningococcal disease (MenB) outbreak in Kent, England, health officials reported on Friday the tally has risen to 23 laboratory confirmed cases and 11 notifications remain under investigation, bringing the total to 34.
The death toll remains at two.
As of Friday, 20 March, 4,500 vaccinations have been given and over 10,500 doses of antibiotics have been administered.
Dr Ben Rush, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at UKHSA said:
We continue to remain vigilant for new cases and work closely with NHS England and local authorities across the country to ensure enhanced surveillance is in place. Any new cases will be identified quickly and responded to.
It’s reassuring to have seen so many eligible young people come forward for antibiotics and vaccination and we’d like to thank everyone involved in this effort so far.
It’s vital that people are aware of the signs and symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease and seek immediate medical attention if they or anyone they know develops symptoms. The risk to the wider population remains low and UKHSA continues to work with partners to identify contacts and offer necessary treatment.
Meningococcal disease is a serious but uncommon illness caused by meningococcal bacteria. It can lead to meningitis - inflammation of the lining of the brain - and sepsis (blood poisoning). The onset can be sudden, which is why knowing the signs and symptoms, and acting quickly, is so important. There are multiple strains of meningococcal bacteria - MenA, MenB, MenC, MenW, MenX, MenY.
Bacterial meningitis and vaccinations
Transmission of MenB requires close and prolonged contact to spread including living in the same household and intimate contact such as kissing or sharing drinks or vapes. The bacteria are not as contagious as other infections such as measles and COVID-19.
The most important thing you can do is know the symptoms and act quickly if they appear.
Symptoms to look out for include:
a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
sudden onset of high fever
severe and worsening headache
stiff neck
vomiting and diarrhoea
joint and muscle pain
dislike of bright lights
very cold hands and feet
seizures
confusion or delirium
extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking