Key Summary
- Meningitis outbreak has triggered a sudden rush for vaccines in UK pharmacies.
- Limited stock means many pharmacies can’t meet demand.
- Public urged to be understanding as targeted vaccinations roll out in Kent.
After an outbreak of meningitis in Kent, pharmacies across the UK are facing a sudden surge in demand for meningitis vaccine, according to a recent report by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA).
In a snap poll conducted by the organisation involving 300 pharmacies, 87 percent pharmacy owners claimed a spike in demand for the vaccine from the public, with some pharmacies receiving 30 to 40 requests for bookings on a single day (Tuesday).
Pharmacies usually provide MenB and MenACWY vaccines for travel purposes, with a few bookings annually and hence they maintain limited stocks.
In addition, 95 per cent of pharmacies surveyed by the NPA claimed they are witnessing a sharp rise in patients seeking advice for minor ailment symptoms, as they fear it could be meningitis. They are often referred by the NHS 111 service.
The NPA wants patients to be mindful that many pharmacies may not be able to order stocks due to the outbreak and to be courteous towards pharmacy teams who are having to manage expectations as well as limited supplies.
NPA chair Olivier Picard said, “Pharmacies are getting unprecedented levels of requests for meningitis vaccinations and many are unable to order in supplies from wholesalers.
“We understand many patients, including parents with older teenagers, will be concerned by this situation and will be keen to vaccinate themselves or their loved ones.
“However, pharmacies are having to manage constrained levels of supply and many have told us they cannot order in new stock.”
"It's clear there are gaps in the original national vaccination strategy and we want to reach those in most need. We are awaiting clarification about any future plans for MenB vaccination."
"If you have any concerns, please contact NHS 111 and consult the advice available on the NHS App," Picard added.
Meanwhile, students in Kent will be offered a targeted vaccination against meningitis B, The Guardian reports.
Government scientists have said two people who died in the outbreak had bacterial strain B of the disease, for which most people have not been vaccinated.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has expressed concern for those affected by the outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent.
The RPS has shared advice with their members from the Interim Chief Medical Advisor, (UKHSA) and Medical Director, (NHS England) regarding the outbreak and will update this advice as the situation evolves and further information emerges.
Local UKHSA coordinated clinics are currently offering antibiotics to contacts in the Canterbury area. However, if an individual has returned home and not already received prophylaxis through a UKHSA coordinated clinic, they are advised to contact their local GP or NHS 111.
Pharmacists can provide rapid access to antibiotics to those eligible, clinical advice, help to direct people to appropriate care pathways, and offer follow up support.
Pharmacists are able to recognise the early symptoms of meningitis, a disease that can become life‑threatening if not detected promptly.
Early warning signs of meningitis B include: high temperature, severe headache, vomiting or diarrhoea, muscle pain and stomach cramps, stiff neck, sensitivity to bright lights, drowsiness, irritability or confusion pale or blotchy skin, spots or rash.
