Parent and Carer Update

Message to Families 19 March 2026

Dear parent/carer

I thought it would be a good idea to communicate directly about the current issue of a Meningitis B (MenB) outbreak in Kent.

I think the first thing to say is there is no evidence that this is happening locally in Nottinghamshire. Any risk to people living, studying or working at Portland remains very low.

It is worth reminding ourselves about the symptoms and the need for vigilance. Meningitis B can develop rapidly, and early recognition is crucial. Please see the guide below on the disease, signs and symptoms.

What is Meningitis B?

Meningitis B (MenB) is the most common and most deadly strain of meningococcal disease in the UK. It causes inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord and can lead to sepsis.

Most cases of meningococcal disease in the UK are currently caused by type B.

Signs & Symptoms (as recognised by the NHS & UKHSA)

Early Symptoms

  • High temperature
  • Headache
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Muscle pain
  • Stomach cramps

Progressive or Late Symptoms

  • Drowsiness, irritability or confusion
  • Pale or blotchy skin
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Rash that does NOT fade under a glass
  • Stiff neck
  • Dislike of bright lights
  • Seizures

NHS Red Flags

Seek emergency help for:

  • Rash that doesn’t fade
  • Sudden high fever
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Confusion or difficulty waking

How Meningitis B Spreads

Spread occurs through close, prolonged contact, including:

  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Kissing
  • Sharing drinks, utensils, or vapes

University students and young adults are repeatedly highlighted as higher‑risk groups due to close living conditions and social mixing.

How to Check for Meningitis B

Although diagnosis requires hospital assessment, you can do the following:

  1. The Glass Test

A meningitis rash does NOT fade when a clear glass is rolled firmly over the skin. If it does not fade – treat as a medical emergency.

  1. Consider the symptom cluster

Symptoms may appear in any order, and not all will be present. If someone is acutely unwell with concerning symptoms – call 999 or refer urgently.

  1. Act fast

MenB can become life‑threatening within 24 hours. Early emergency treatment significantly improves outcomes.

Meningitis B Vaccination in the UK

NHS Provision

  • The MenB vaccine (Bexsero) is routinely offered to babies at 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 12 months. National roll out for children from 2015.

Most teenagers and adults born before 2015 are not covered and would need to seek private vaccination.

What you should do

  • Trust your instincts: If someone is unwell and getting worse, seek medical help immediately.
  • Seek Medical Help: Contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly. In an emergency, dial 999.
  • Prevent Spread: Ensure good hygiene—wash hands regularly and cover your mouth when coughing/sneezing.

Where to Get a Meningitis B Vaccine in Nottingham (Private)

These clinics currently offer (or have offered) private MenB vaccination:

  1. Park Private Clinic – Nottingham
  • Address: 16 Regent St, Nottingham, NG1 5BQ
  • Provides private MenB vaccination.
  1. Vantage Vale Pharmacy – Colwick, Nottingham
  • Offers Bexsero MenB vaccine with online booking.
  • Address: 66 Vale Rd, Colwick, NG4 2EB
  1. Boots – MenB Vaccination Service
  • Available in selected Boots UK stores.
  • Private service: approx. £110 per dose (2‑dose series).
  1. Regent Street Clinic – Nottingham
  • Long‑established private provider offering MenB vaccination.
  1. Superdrug Health Clinic Offers MenB vaccination, though UK‑wide stock shortages may occur.

For more information, please visit the NHS website.

Hopefully you won’t need this information in real life. So I will close by wishing you all well and hoping that you are enjoying a bit of gorgeous spring sunshine.

Mark