Meningitis alert: Oldham parents urged to check child vaccines
NHS Greater Manchester has issued a meningitis alert urging parents to check their children's vaccination status as cases continue to be reported. The MenB vaccine, introduced in 2015 for babies under two, and the MenACWY vaccine, given to Year 9 students aged 13-14, are available to protect against different meningitis strains. Parents are advised to check their child's red book or contact their GP practice if unsure about vaccination status. Recent cases in Kent involve the MenB type, which most teenagers haven't received. Early symptoms include a rash that doesn't fade when pressed, and parents are urged to seek immediate medical help if concerned. Dr Helen Wall, clinical director for population health at NHS Greater Manchester, emphasized the importance of checking vaccination status and being alert to meningitis signs.