Dear Families,

We would like to make you aware that there have been confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) in the Kent area. We are sharing this update, along with guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), to ensure all parents and carers are informed of the signs and symptoms to look out for.

Signs and symptoms

Meningococcal disease can develop quickly. Seek urgent medical help if anyone develops symptoms such as:

• high fever
• severe or worsening headache
• rapid breathing
• shivering
• vomiting or diarrhoea
• cold hands and feet
• drowsiness or confusion
• stiff neck
• dislike of bright lights
• joint or muscle pain
• a rash that does not fade when pressed against a glass
• seizures

Early symptoms can resemble flu or a cold, and young people are particularly at risk of overlooking these signs. If you are ever concerned, please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or dial 999 in an emergency.

Further information from UKHSA can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-confirmed-in-kent

Vaccination reminder

All Year 9 students were offered the MenACWY vaccine, and those with parental consent received their vaccination by 5 March 2026. If your child has not yet been vaccinated, or if you have questions about their immunisation status, please contact the local immunisation team:

• Email: hrch.greenwichimms@nhs.net
• Telephone: 020 3903 3345

If your child is well and not displaying any symptoms, we expect them to attend school as normal.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Kind regards,

Miss D. Ainsworth

Medical Lead & School Nurse