We have now identified from some of the testing that it seems to be the group B meningococcal strain that is causing outbreak in Kent. We have a meningococcal vaccine covering four different strains in teenagers. Usually it is given at the age of 13 or 14 years of age. It covers four main groups A, C, W and Y.
The meningitis outbreak in our area is a huge shock. Feeling so deeply sad for the young lives lost a year 13 pupil at QEGS [Queen Elizabeth's grammar school] and a uni of Kent student. My heart goes out to their families. It's incredibly worrying too for the families of the young people in hospital, and others at risk.
The fast-acting disease is caused by meningococcal bacteria spreading to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which causes meningitis, and infecting the bloodstream, which causes sepsis. The UKHSA said anyone with meningitis and septicaemia symptoms should seek medical help urgently, which could help save lives.
