A Kent GP surgery has shared eight key symptoms to watch for as UKHSA investigates an outbreak of meningococcal disease
A GP surgery in Kent has issued a poster about meningitis amid an outbreak of meningococcal disease currently being investigated by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in the region. People have been warned that fever, headache, and confusion could be signs of the disease.
According to the latest update, four laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported, bringing the total to 15. Tragically, this includes two people who have died. Tributes have been paid to Juliette, an 18-year-old student at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham. A 21-year-old University of Kent student has also died.
Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly, warns the NHS. You should get medical help immediately if you’re concerned about yourself or your child. Symptoms of meningitis can appear in any order, making it important to know what to look out for.
A poster spotted at the reception desk of a GP surgery in Ramsgate urged patients to watch out for eight signs of meningitis, reports Kent Live. On display at The Grange Practice, the sign said: “Signs and symptoms of meningitis: fever, vomiting, headache, sleepy, rash, dislike lights, confusion, and seizures.”
Other symptoms of meningitis include a stiff neck and being sick. The NHS website says: “Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include:
- a high temperature (fever)
- being sick
- a headache
- a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (but a rash will not always develop)
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- drowsiness or unresponsiveness
- seizures (fits)
“These symptoms can appear in any order. You do not always get all the symptoms.” The NHS tells people to call 999 for an ambulance or go to A&E if they think they may have meningitis.
The advice says: “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.”
In a March 17 update, UKHSA said that spotting the symptoms and getting early treatment can save lives. “Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly.
“Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.
“Early symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs. If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency. Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.”
The guidance adds: “Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.”
Anyone who visited Club Chemistry between March 5 and 7 is urged to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure. UKHSA has also confirmed a small targeted vaccination programme will begin, starting with students at Canterbury Campus Halls of Residence at the University of Kent.
