Meningitis Outbreak

We understand that recent news reports about the meningitis outbreak in Kent may be concerning for parents and patients. Advice from UKHSA (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.

It is of great importance that parents keep the routine vaccinations up to date, including the MenACWY vaccine where applicable. The full UK routine schedule is available on the UK government website

GP Practices are required to provide MenACWY vaccination to those aged 14 years up to their 25th birthday. This offer is opportunistic or if requested by the individual. This includes those who may have missed vaccination via the school  programme, or those who are attending university for the first time (see NHS England: General practice vaccination and immunisation services: standards and core contractual requirements). Eligible patients must be under the age of 25 years at the time of vaccination.

Some of the cases  in this specific outbreak have been identified as MenB (Cases of invasive meningococcal disease confirmed in Kent). Men B vaccine is offered at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year of age. Current routine UK imms guidance does not advise giving Men B vaccine after 2 years of age (Meningococcal: the green book, chapter 22)

If a suspected case of meningitis were ever identified this area, the Health Protection Team would advise us directly on immediate steps, communication, and any required risk assessment.

Published: Mar 18, 2026