Barnsley residents urged to check routine vaccinations following meningococcal cases in Kent

Barnsley residents are being encouraged to check their routine vaccinations are up to date following the tragic death of two university students in Kent linked to meningococcal disease.

The risk to the wider population remains low, and the UK Health Security Agency continues to investigate the cases in Kent.

Meningococcal disease is a serious and potentially life‑threatening illness. It can cause meningitis or septicaemia (blood poisoning).

While many people go on to fully recover, it can lead to long‑term physical, neurological or psychological problems and, in around one in ten cases, can be fatal.

Although rare, meningococcal disease can affect anyone, but babies, children, teenagers and young adults are at higher risk. The recent cases act as an important reminder of the role vaccinations play in protecting people and communities.

Anna Hartley, Executive Director of Public Health and Communities, said:

“We know that vaccines work with children’s immune systems, protecting them against illnesses, and that parents and carers want to boost their children’s immunity by making sure they have all their routine vaccinations. These protect against a range of serious illnesses, including meningitis, measles, polio and tetanus.

"The most recently available data tells us that over 90% of Barnsley children receive their childhood vaccinations, including the six-in-one and MenB vaccines, by age two and both doses of their MMR vaccine by age five.

“It’s also important that teenagers and young adults receive their routine booster vaccinations at the right time. This includes the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against four types of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y).

“Keeping vaccinations up to date at every stage of life helps protect local people, families and communities from illnesses that can be prevented, helping us create a healthier Barnsley for everyone.”

The strain linked to the recent meningococcal cases has been part of the routine childhood vaccination programme since September 2015. This means that children born since then will have been offered protection as part of their normal vaccinations.

The MenB (meningococcal B) vaccine is not currently offered routinely to teenagers and young adults through the NHS. However, it is available privately at some pharmacies for those who may wish to access extra protection and boost their immunity.

Parents and carers who are unsure whether their child is fully up to date with their routine vaccinations and boosters are encouraged to:

• Contact the School Age Immunisation Service on 01226 644233.
• Speak to their GP practice to check their vaccination records.
• Check their records online via the NHS App.

Young people who may have missed school‑age or teenage booster vaccinations can also attend local adolescent drop‑in clinics or speak to their GP. You can learn more about these clinics by visiting the School Age Immunisation Service’s webpage.

Routine teenage booster vaccinations include:

• The MenACWY vaccine, which protects against four types of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y).
• The HPV vaccine, which helps protect against several types of cancer.
• The tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster.

More information about meningitis and vaccinations can be found on the NHS website.

Anyone who is concerned about symptoms should seek urgent medical advice or contact NHS 111.