Three students at schools in Dorset have been diagnosed with meningitis, health officials have confirmed.
The students have been diagnosed with MenB strain, weeks after two people died from infection in Kent. However it was a different sub-strain to the type detected last month, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed.
Stroud-based Meningitis Now CEO Dr Tom Nutt issued a statement saying: “We are concerned to hear of three cases of MenB amongst young people in Weymouth. Our heartfelt thoughts are with them, their families, friends and the entire community. We wish them a good recovery, and are here to provide support at this difficult time.
“Meningitis can progress very quickly and its impact can be devastating. Meningitis can affect anyone. But students and young people are at increased risk because they are more likely to carry the bacteria that can cause meningitis, and because bacteria can spread more easily in settings where students and young people live, study and socialise closely together. We understand that these cases in Dorset are unconnected to the recent outbreak in Kent.
“We urge students, young people, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can include a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, cold hands and feet, limb pain, and, in some cases, a rash that does not fade under pressure.
“Symptoms can appear suddenly, in any order and can easily be mistaken for flu, a heavy cold or even a hangover. So, it is vital that anyone who is concerned seeks urgent medical help immediately.
“We welcome the swift response from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to identify close contacts and provide precautionary antibiotics and MenB vaccinations to young people in school years 7 to 13 in Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell. Rapid public health action is crucial in helping to reduce the risk of further cases. We are supporting the schools and wider community and are here to help in any way we can.
“We understand that this news may cause people concern or anxiety, especially so soon after the Kent outbreak. Meningitis Now is here to support anyone in the UK affected by meningitis. You can find our more from www.meningitisnow.org or by calling our nurse-led Helpline on 0808 80 10 388, open Monday to Friday.
“This situation is yet another reminder of why our “No Plan B for MenB” campaign is calling for greater protection for young people. MenB is one of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis in the UK. Its impact is devastating, cruel, life-changing – and preventable.
“Since 2015 only infants have been vaccinated against MenB but we believe all teenagers and young adults should be protected by this vaccine on the NHS. When it comes to MenB, there is no plan B – we must vaccinate young people to protect them. The MenB vaccine is currently only available for young adults privately through high street and supermarket pharmacies.
“If anyone is worried about they or a loved one may have meningitis, trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help. Acting quickly can save lives.”
