Dear Parents and Carers, 

Please read the important message below and attached, in response to the recent meningitis cases in Kent, from The Bristol Safeguarding in Education Team.

Following news reports of a number of meningitis cases in Kent, which have resulted in 2 deaths, Public Health are reminding all parents and students of the importance of Meningitis vaccination. MenACWY is routinely offered to all students during Year 9. We encourage all parents to respond to the invitation and consent process, which will come from the school age immunisation service, Sirona, in the coming weeks.

In Bristol, around 35% of older students, in school Years 10 to 13, have not had their MenACWY vaccination. Please can you check your child’s vaccination record and book an appointment if needed. 

You can do this via sirona.sch-imms@nhs.net or 0300 1245 515 for students in Years 10 to 13, or alternatively for students in Year 12 or 13 (and other individuals up to the age of 25), via their GP.

Meningitis is an uncommon but serious disease and, in many cases, can be prevented through vaccination, which is safe and available.

More information about MenACWY vaccination can be found here: 
Meningococcal ACWY and diphtheria, tetanus and polio – Children and Young People’s Services

Kind Regards,

BCC Health Protection Duty Desk Team (on behalf of the Safeguarding in Education Team)