Meningitis outbreak information GP hub

What is the current situation and operational response?

A meningitis B outbreak is being managed through a coordinated response involving NHS, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), local authorities, and providers. Antibiotic prophylaxis is being delivered via designated centres, with more than 5,000 doses administered to date.

Who is eligible for antibiotic prophylaxis?

Eligible groups include:

• university campus residents
• attendees of Club Chemistry on specified dates
• close contacts identified by UKHSA.

How is prophylaxis being delivered?

Through designated antibiotic centres. Details are available on a new patient information hub. 

Should GP practices prescribe ciprofloxacin?

No. Practices should direct eligible patients to antibiotic centres.

Only consider prescribing in exceptional circumstances where patients cannot attend (compassionate basis).

Will more centres open (e.g. Ashford)?

Yes, additional sites are planned and will be published online when open on the patient information hub.

Is a vaccination programme being introduced?

A small, targeted MenB vaccination programme is starting today in Canterbury with cohort guidance being provided by UKHSA.

What about two-year-olds and above, and vaccine stock?

Stock levels and catch-up vaccination are under review. Further guidance to follow.

What counts as a “close contact”?

A "close contact" for meningitis (specifically bacterial/meningococcal) is defined as someone with prolonged, direct exposure to a patient's respiratory droplets or oral secretions within 7 days before illness onset. This typically includes household members, intimate partners, or sharing, food, vapes, or drinks, posing a high risk. 

Why are Club Chemistry attendees included?

Inclusion is based on UKHSA risk assessment due to the nature of the event.

Should spirometry or cough-generating procedures stop?

No. Continue as normal unless national guidance changes.

Are there new PPE or mask requirements?

No. Continue standard infection prevention and control measures.
Use additional PPE only when assessing suspected or confirmed cases.

Will additional system capacity be provided (e.g. UTCs)?

This is under review as the situation evolves.

How should practices prioritise work (e.g. QOF)?

Focus on patient care and outbreak response as a priority. No formal QOF guidance issued at this stage.

Will standard website messaging be provided?

Yes. Practices will receive standard wording directing patients to the central ICB website.

Are issues with NHS 111 being addressed?

Yes. Work is ongoing to improve communication and reduce inappropriate GP workload.

What about communication with schools?

This is being managed centrally to ensure consistent messaging.

What is the purpose of the advice line?

For general advice and reassurance only.

It is not a clinical assessment service. Symptomatic patients should still be assessed by a clinician.

How will GP queries be handled?

A central query system is being developed. Details to follow.

What is the guidance on PLT and training?

PLT is paused for this and next week.

Routine face-to-face care and training should continue.

What is happening with CQC inspections?

CQC has been informed. A pause in inspections has been requested; outcome pending.