Meningitis in Reading Area
Important Information: Meningococcal Disease Cases Reported in the Reading Area
We are aware of recent news reports regarding a small number of meningococcal disease cases identified in the Reading area.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is currently managing the situation and has confirmed that close contacts of affected individuals are being contacted directly where any treatment or additional advice is required.
What patients need to know
At the present time:
- Most patients do not need antibiotics or vaccination.
- Anyone identified as requiring preventative antibiotics will be contacted directly by UKHSA or their educational setting.
- GP surgeries are not being asked to provide antibiotics routinely to the wider public.
Vaccination information
There are different types (strains) of meningococcal bacteria.
- The MenACWY vaccine is routinely offered to teenagers in school years 9–10 and protects against MenA, MenC, MenW and MenY strains.
- Babies born on or after 1 May 2015 are routinely offered the MenB vaccine through the NHS childhood vaccination programme.
If you are unsure whether your child’s vaccinations are up to date, you can:
- Check their Red Book
- View immunisations through the NHS App
- Contact the surgery if you believe information is missing or incorrect
Symptoms to be aware of
Meningococcal disease can sometimes initially resemble flu-like illness but can become serious very quickly.
Symptoms may include:
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting
- Pale or blotchy skin
- Rash that does not fade under pressure
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Cold hands and feet
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion or irritability
- Seizures or fits
Symptoms can appear in any order, and not everybody will develop all symptoms.
When to seek urgent medical help
Please seek urgent medical advice via NHS 111, your GP, or A&E/999 if you or your child becomes rapidly unwell, particularly if symptoms are worsening or you are concerned about meningitis or septicaemia. Early treatment is extremely important.
For further information:
