Meningitis response: Thank you to our teams

We are incredibly proud of the response from our colleagues across Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust and system partners during the recent meningitis outbreak.

Following the tragic events in Canterbury, teams came together across organisations at pace to support our communities and deliver urgent care and protection to those affected.

Within hours, services were mobilised and clinics established. In the days that followe colleagues continue to work tirelessly across multiple sites to provide antibiotics and vaccinations to thousands of people.

This has been a exceptional effort, with staff from a wide range of roles stepping forward to support the response, often at short notice and alongside their usual responsibilities.

Mairead McCormick, Chief Executive, said: “I want to personally thank every colleague involved in this response. This has been an incredibly challenging time and I am so proud of the professionalism, compassion and teamwork shown across our organisation. You have made a real difference to the people and communities we serve.”

Looking for information about clinics, symptoms or treatment?

For the latest information, including:

• clinic locations and opening times
• eligibility for antibiotics and vaccination
• signs and symptoms of meningitis.

Please visit the Kent and Medway meningitis information hub: www.kmhealthandcare.uk/meningitis-information

Supporting our communities

We continue to work closely with system partners to monitor the situation and ensure support remains in place for those who need it.

More information

If you or someone you know develops symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, seek medical help urgently by going to the nearest Accident and Emergency department or calling 999.

What are the symptoms to look out for?

• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (a rash is not always present)
• Sudden onset of high fever / temperature
• 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

You can find out about meningitis and information on the vaccination on the NHS website.