Meningitis outbreak

We understand that recent news reports about the meningitis outbreak in Kent may be causing concern, particularly for those working with or caring for children and young people.

Current advice from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is that there is no increased risk to the wider population outside of the specific outbreak area in Kent. At this time, no additional action is required beyond maintaining good routine health practices.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the importance of keeping all routine vaccinations up to date. This includes the MenACWY vaccine, which is offered to young people aged 14 up to their 25th birthday, particularly those who may have missed it at school or are entering university for the first time.

Some cases linked to the recent outbreak have been identified as Meningitis B (MenB). In the UK, the MenB vaccine is routinely offered to infants at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 1 year of age. Current national guidance does not recommend MenB vaccination for individuals over the age of 2 years, unless in specific clinical circumstances.

If a suspected case of meningitis were ever identified in a school or community setting, specialist health protection teams would provide clear advice on any necessary actions, communication, and risk assessment.

For further information about meningitis, you may find the following resources helpful:

• Meningitis - signs, symptoms and vaccination
• Meningitis Research Foundation
• Meningitis Now

Published: Mar 19, 2026