18/03/2026
Meningitis outbreak in Kent
We understand that recent news reports about the meningitis outbreak in Kent may be concerning for parents and staff working with children and young people. Advice from UK Health Security Agency is that there is no baseline increased risk outside of the specific outbreak in Kent at this time and currently there is no need for any additional actions beyond routine vaccinations.
We remind patients of the importance of keeping routine vaccinations up to date, including the MenACWY vaccine which is given in year 9 or 10 at school, but patients are eligible up to the age of 25 years.
Some of the cases in this specific outbreak have been identified as Meningitis B.
Meningitis B vaccine is offered to babies at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year of age since 2015. Current routine UK immunisations guidance does not advise giving Meningitis B vaccine after 2 years of age.
Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are 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
Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.
There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives.
Further information on meningococcal disease · Meningitis - NHS · The Meningitis Research Foundation Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm UK: 080 8800 3344 Republic of Ireland: 1800 41 33 44 · Meningitis Now 0808 80 10 388 (9am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 1pm Friday)
18/3/26 From -Cases of invasive meningococcal disease notified in Kent - GOV.UK
