Update: Meningitis outbreak in Kent
Health partners are continuing to respond to the outbreak of meningococcal disease (MenB) in Kent.
Meningococcal disease is a serious but uncommon illness. It can lead to meningitis – inflammation of the lining of the brain – and sepsis (blood poisoning). Symptoms can start suddenly. This is why knowing what to look for, and acting fast, is so important.
Symptoms to look out for
Early symptoms can be similar to common illnesses like colds or flu. These include: headache, fever, vomiting, muscle or joint pain and cold hands and feet.
Other symptoms include:
- a high temperature
- confusion
- breathing quickly
- pale, mottled or blotchy skin (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- spots or a rash (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- being very sleepy or difficult to wake
- fits (seizures)
See the NHS website for more information.
Who is being offered vaccination
Preventative antibiotics and the MenB vaccine are being offered to:
- sixth form and university students in Kent
- anyone who visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 March and 16 March
- close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases.
Students who have gone home to south east London can get preventative antibiotics and the MenB vaccine at their GP practice.
Antibiotics will help protect you now, but it is not long lasting. That’s why getting vaccinated is so important. Protection starts to build over the first 1 to 2 weeks after vaccination. This means:
- you can still get meningococcal disease in the days just after the vaccine
- it’s important to look out for symptoms of meningitis or sepsis, even if you’ve had the vaccine
- you should get medical help fast if you’re worried
How to get help
Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.
Use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice if you’re not sure if it’s anything serious.
If you’ve had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again.
For more information, visit: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2025/10/31/what-is-meningitis-symptoms-risks-and-how-to-protect-yourself/