Kent Meningitis Outbreak: what is it and what should you do?

East Kent is currently suffering through a viral outbreak of MenB, which is specifically targeting young adults and teens born before 2015, the meningococcal bacteria is a form of Meningitis, though this specific case seems to have mutated to be more infectious and quicker spreading.

How does it spread?

MenB usually spreads through close physical contact, such as kissing, hands on faces or making lots of physical contact, the strain in Kent right now also spreads through close proximity coughs and sneezes.

How serious is it?

The outbreak is rather serious, as according to the UK Government Fatality rates can vary from 5 - 20%, with deaths commonly occurring around a day after serious symptoms, in the Kent outbreak we have sadly seen Two deaths and over 13 people hospitalised, some in comas, MenB infects through attacking the bloodstream and causing severe Sepsis, and attacking the spinal cord, severing your brains bloodflow.

What are the symptoms?

According to the UK Government Symptoms include:

• A Fever

• Vomiting

• Headache

• Rash that does not fade when applied pressure with glass

• A stiff neck

• A dislike of bright lights

• Feeling sleepy, drowsy or unresponsive

• seizures and fits

If you are in the areas mentioned and have started experiencing any of these symptoms without previously experiencing them, please see a doctor, meningitis isn't something that can be waited through, and it only takes a day to kill.

What should you do?

If you live in Canterbury, Ashford, Faversham, Thanet, Broadstairs, the Isle of Sheppey and Margate or the surrounding areas and are a Secondary School, Sixth Form, College or University student then practice proper hygiene such as washing your hands and face, coughing into elbows or away from people and washing down surfaces if many people touch them, if someone you know or around you has been infected then it may be ideal to wear a mask or latex gloves, as well as visit the chemist or hospital to see if they can provide any protection from MenB.

Stay safe out there, see a doctor if needed, remember, you won't be around to realise when it's to late, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

Writen by Harry Vilday, Amateur Journalist.