Meningitis B (MenB) Update
We know some parents may be worried about the recent increase in MenB cases.
At the moment, there is no national guidance to offer the MenB vaccine outside the routine NHS vaccination schedule. This means it is not currently offered to older children or the wider public.
The MenB vaccine is part of the NHS vaccination programme for babies only. We are not able to offer this vaccine to children over the age of 2.
Where to get more information
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) information about the current outbreak
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) guidance on meningococcal disease
- NHS information on meningitis and vaccination
Important
If your child is unwell or you are worried about symptoms, get medical advice straight away.
Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
In an emergency, call 999.
Glenhurst Nursery and Pre-School
Update: 19 March 2026
We have been made aware that a child at Glenhurst Nursery and Pre-School has developed an invasive Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection. We understand that parents and carers have been notified by letter.
Group A streptococcus are bacteria that can be found in the throat and on the skin. Some people carry these bacteria without feeling unwell, while others may develop an infection.
Common symptoms to look out for
Most Group A streptococcal infections are mild. These can include:
- sore throat
- fever
- skin infections such as impetigo
- scarlet fever
If your child develops any of these symptoms within the next 30 days, please contact your GP practice. A clinician can assess your child, arrange testing if needed, and prescribe antibiotics if appropriate.
If your child is diagnosed with a Group A streptococcal infection, they should stay off nursery or school until they have been taking antibiotics for at least 24 hours.
When to seek urgent help
In rare cases, Group A streptococcal infection can become more serious and lead to invasive disease. This risk is still very low, but it is important to know the signs.
Please seek urgent medical help straight away if your child, or anyone in your household, develops any of the following symptoms:
- a high temperature
- severe muscle aches
- localised muscle pain
- increasing pain, swelling or redness around a wound
- unexplained diarrhoea or vomiting
If someone in your household becomes unwell with these symptoms, please attend A&E immediately.