Due to the recent meningitis outbreak in Kent, pharmacies throughout the UK are experiencing an increase in inquiries from concerned patients and parents. Here is crucial information to assist pharmacies in addressing these queries effectively.
Current outbreak details
The outbreak has been linked to the Meningococcal B (MenB) strain. While several meningitis vaccines are available, only two are specific to MenB:
- Trumenba
- Bexsero
Other vaccines target meningitis ACWY (MenACWY) and do not offer protection against MenB.
Vaccination guidance for pharmacies
Pharmacies offering meningitis vaccines through Patient Group Directions (PGDs) should verify the inclusion and exclusion criteria, as some PGDs are intended for travel health purposes only. If providing private MenB vaccinations, ensure adequate stock to complete the primary course, which involves 2 or 3 doses depending on the brand.
It is important to note that treating meningitis is not part of the Pharmacy First Service, and prophylactic antibiotics cannot be supplied under any clinical pathway.
Identifying meningitis
Symptoms of meningitis can vary and may not appear in a specific order. Early stages might not present a rash, or the rash may fade under pressure. Key symptoms include:
- Fever*
- Cold hands and feet
- Vomiting
- Confusion*
- Rapid breathing
- Muscle and joint pain
- Non-blanching rash*
- Headache
- Neck stiffness*
- Photophobia*
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
- Seizures*
*Red flag symptoms
Action for suspected meningitis cases
- If a patient exhibits any red flag symptoms, refer them to A&E immediately or call an ambulance.
- If meningitis is suspected without red flag symptoms, advise the patient to consult their GP.
- Pharmacies in England can contact their local health protection team for support. Find your local health protection team in England - GOV.UK
Guidance for patients inquiring about vaccinations or exposure to confirmed cases
- Reassure patients that most individuals are not at risk, as MenB spreads through close and prolonged contact.
- Close contacts will be notified by UKHSA and may be eligible for precautionary antibiotics. NHS Kent and Medway have established clinics to provide antibiotics. Meningitis outbreak in the Canterbury area | News | ICB
Vaccination history
MenB was added to the UK vaccination programme in September 2015. Children born on or after May 1st 2015, would have been offered the vaccine on the NHS, following a three-dose schedule at:
- 8 weeks
- 12 weeks
- 1 year
Babies can catch up on missed doses up to age 2. The vaccine is not available on request for healthy individuals over 2 unless they belong to a high-risk group, as outlined in the Green Book.
The MenACWY vaccine is typically administered in school Year 9 (ages 13-14). Missed NHS doses can be provided by GPs up to age 25.
Vaccine Availability
- Trumenba (Pfizer): Currently unavailable. Awaiting guidance from UKHSA.
- Bexsero (GSK): Currently unavailable.
Additional resources
Meningitis - Vaccination - NHS
Meningococcal: the green book, chapter 22 - GOV.UK
Meningococcal disease: guidance on public health management - GOV.UK
Guidance for public health management of meningococcal disease in the UK
NHS England letter regarding outbreak of meningococcal disease - Community Pharmacy England