Public Health
Floor 3 Zone C
Bernard Weatherill House
Mint Walk
Croydon CR0 1EA
Date: 19th March 2026
Dear Nursery Managers, Staff, Parents and Carers
Subject: Meningitis update and routine vaccinations
We are writing to update you following the recent meningitis outbreak in Kent. We want to reassure everyone that there are currently no related cases in Croydon, and the risk to local residents remains low. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is supporting the affected school community in Kent and monitoring the situation closely.
Meningitis symptoms to look out for
Although the risk in Croydon is low, it’s important that people are familiar with the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia. These illnesses can come on quickly, and early treatment with antibiotics is vital.
Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
• a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
•sudden onset of high fever
•severe and worsening headache
•stiff neck
•vomiting and diarrhoea
•joint and muscle pain
•dislike of bright lights
•very cold hands and feet
•seizures
•confusion/delirium
•extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
If a child or adult develops any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical help immediately. For advice, contact your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999 or go directly to A&E.
Keeping children Protected
The best way to reduce the risk of meningitis and other serious infections is to ensure that all children are up to date with their routine vaccinations. These vaccines protect against different causes of meningitis and septicaemia and are offered free of charge by the NHS.
Further information on meningitis and childhood vaccinations can be found a
NHS vaccinations and when to have them – NHS
A guide to vaccination for for pre-school
Email: public.health@croydon.gov.uk