We are aware of media coverage of the ongoing outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent, and we wanted to provide you with reassurance and further information.
Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria.
We are not aware of any cases linked to our University. With the safety, health and wellbeing of our community as our priority, we would like to remind you of the symptoms to watch for and what to do if you are concerned.
Signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital. Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
- a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
- sudden onset of high fever
- severe and worsening headache
- stiff neck
- vomiting and diarrhoea
- joint and muscle pain
- dislike of bright lights
- very cold hands and feet
- seizures
- confusion/delirium
- extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
If you think you may have symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical help by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999. It is important to be registered with a GP. You can find out how to do so via this page.
Getting vaccinated against meningitis and septicaemia
The MenACWY vaccine protects against four types of meningitis and septicaemia.
If you haven’t had the MenACWY vaccine for any reason, or if you are unsure, please speak to your GP.
If you have missed getting vaccinated and are under 25, you can get a free catch-up vaccination from your GP. This includes international students.
The University, in conjunction with Brent Council Public Health, is running a free vaccination clinic offering Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio (DTP), Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Meningitis ACWY (MenACWY) vaccinations on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 March at Harrow Campus. The MenB vaccine is not available at the vaccination clinic.
You can find more detail about the clinic and how to book for an appointment here.
More information
- Statement issued by the UK Health Security Agency on the Kent outbreak
- Meningitis - NHS
- The Meningitis Research Foundation, or call 0808 800 3344 (24 hours)
- Meningitis Now, or call 0808 80 10 388 (9am to 8pm)
If you have concerns or questions, please get in touch via our Student Centre.
We will continue to monitor the situation and update our community if further relevant information becomes available.
