Dear Colleagues,
You may be aware of recent reports of a meningococcal disease outbreak in Kent, linked to the Canterbury area and the University of Kent. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified a cluster of cases in mid-March, primarily affecting university students and some local school students, with a number of cases linked to a shared social exposure in Canterbury. Some cases have been severe, with rapid deterioration, and sadly there have been two deaths reported. This remains an evolving situation.
Public health teams are actively managing the outbreak through:
- Identification and follow-up of close contacts
- Provision of antibiotic prophylaxis to those at risk
- Targeted vaccination in affected groups
Individuals identified as close contacts are being contacted directly by public health teams.
About invasive meningococcal disease (IMD)Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a serious bacterial infection spread through close or direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person, typically through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils. Transmission usually requires prolonged or frequent close contact.
The most common forms of IMD are:
- Meningitis (infection of the lining around the brain)
- Septicaemia (bloodstream infection)
Less severe (non-invasive) presentations, such as conjunctivitis, can occur but may still pose a risk of progression or transmission.
Who may be at higher risk
While meningococcal disease is rare, certain groups are at relatively higher risk:
- Teenagers and young adults, particularly those in universities or shared accommodation
- Close contacts of confirmed cases, including those with prolonged or close exposure
- Infants and young children, who remain among the most vulnerable
VaccinationThis outbreak serves as a reminder to ensure that our routine vaccinations are up to date.
In the UK, two meningococcal vaccines are routinely offered:
- MenACWY vaccine – offered to teenagers; protects against groups A, C, W and Y
- MenB vaccine – routinely offered to infants
Investigations have confirmed that some cases in this outbreak are due to meningococcal group B (MenB). It is important to be aware that the MenACWY vaccine does not protect against MenB.
MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why awareness of symptoms and early action is essential. No single vaccine protects against all meningococcal strains, so early recognition and treatment remain critical.
Key points for staff and families- If you have children in schools or universities in the UK, please follow all advice issued by the NHS and local public health authorities
- Individuals identified as close contacts will be contacted directly if treatment or vaccination is required
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date where eligible
- Maintain good hygiene practices (e.g. handwashing, avoiding sharing drinks or utensils)
- Be alert to symptoms of meningococcal disease
Symptoms to be aware of
Meningococcal disease can develop rapidly.
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 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.
What to doEarly symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs. If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms:
- Seek urgent medical attention immediately (NHS 111 or emergency services if severe in the UK, or your local healthcare provider/HMG Healthline if overseas).
- Do not wait for all symptoms to appear
