The Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland has assessed a recent meningitis outbreak in Kent, England, and determined there is no increased risk to the local population.

Dr Maeve Middleton, Specialty Registrar in Public Health Medicine at the agency, noted that meningitis can progress quickly and affect anyone, though it is common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. University students and young adults face higher risk in close-living environments.

The agency urges students, staff, and families to watch for symptoms including fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, and a non-fading rash when pressed against glass. Babies may show additional signs such as cold hands and feet, vomiting, drowsiness, high-pitched crying, and dislike of being handled.

Dr Middleton advised consulting a GP if anyone feels unusually unwell with an unusual headache or other symptoms.

In Northern Ireland, infants receive the Men B vaccine through the childhood immunisation programme. The MenACWY vaccine protects against groups A, C, W, and Y, offered to year 11 pupils in school with a second chance in year 12. First-time university students aged 25 or under without the vaccine should contact their GP.