Meningitis Information
We understand some patients are concerned regarding the outbreak in Kent which has resulted in the deaths of two young people. We would like to reassure you that this outbreak is currently confined to the Kent area - if there were to be an outbreak locally we will be guided by our local Public Health team and we will share this guidance with our patients. Please see the following information regarding vaccinations:
- The Men B vaccine was introduced to the NHS England childhood vaccination schedule in 2015 and is given routinely for those up to the age of 2. There is no NHS vaccine catch up for those patients aged over 2 and Salisbury Medical Practice does not offer a private vaccination.
- The Men ACWY vaccine is given around the age of 13-14 and is administered by the school nursing team, this includes those who are home schooled. This is one dose only. If this was missed, we are able to offer the Men ACWY vaccine as a catch up, up to the age of 25.
- We are able to print a copy of your child's vaccination record which you can collect the following working day after 2pm. Please submit an accurx admin request if you would like this.
You can find the latest information regarding the outbreak from the UK Health and Security Agency: Cases of invasive meningococcal disease notified in Kent - GOV.UK
We would like to take this opportunity to remind patients of the signs and symptoms of meningitis:
- fever and/or vomiting
- stiff neck
- avoiding bright light
- sleepy/difficult to wake
- seizures (fits)
- rash
- confused
- muscle,joint and/or limb pain
- cold hands and feet
- severe headache
These symptoms can appear in any order. You do not always get all the symptoms. Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.
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.
Published: Mar 18, 2026