We are aware of an outbreak of Meningococcal Group B (MenB) infection, linked to the University of Kent.

MenB is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). It can progress rapidly and can be life‑threatening.

Those who are at risk will be contacted by the public health teams. If you have not been contacted you are unlikely to need treatment. We can only provide antibiotics to patients who have been contacted.

If you have any queries about eligibility for antibiotics, please contact the local UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South East team on 0344 225 3861

With regard to the vaccination for Meningococcal Group B, GP surgeries are being prepped to provide vaccinations to those in eligible groups and we are waiting for confirmation on what those groups are. Any patients wanting the Men B vaccination immediately will need to pay privately at a local travel clinic or pharmacy offering the service.

If you are feeling unwell, please submit a SystmConnect form via our website, or speak to a member of our team.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-confirmed-in-kent