Meningitis Outbreak

Posted on March 18th, 2026

As you may be aware, there has been a meningococcal disease outbreak in Kent.

The UKHSA is working hard to contain the outbreak and is giving prophylaxis antibiotics to close contacts. No new advice has been issued about accessing the Meningitis B vaccine, known as MenB, for the wider public.

You may wish to consult your red book to see if this has been part of your vaccination schedule in the past. If wishing to vaccinate yourself, this will need to be done privately at pharmacies and clinics that offer this service.

Symptoms of Meningitis can include a sudden high fever, a stiff neck, severe and worsening headache and a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass. If you have any concerns about you or your child please seek medical attention immediately.

For further information, please visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/symptoms/