#UK, #England: #Antibiotics and MenB #vaccination to be offered to young people in #Dorset following 3 cases of invasive #meningococcal disease (UKHSA, Apr. 17 '26)

 

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working with Dorset Council, the NHS and local partners following 3 confirmed cases of meningococcal infection (meningitis) in young people in Weymouth, Dorset.

The cases were confirmed between 20 March and 15 April. All have received treatment and are recovering well. Close contacts of the cases have already been offered antibiotics as a precaution.

Two of the cases attend Budmouth Academy and the other attends Wey Valley Academy. Further information about the signs and symptoms of meningitis has been shared with students and parents of both schools.

Around 300 to 400 cases of meningococcal disease are diagnosed in England every year. These 3 cases have been confirmed as Meningitis B (MenB) and are the same sub-strain type, but a different sub-strain to the one detected recently in Kent.

The 2 cases who attend Budmouth Academy are contacts of each other, but currently no confirmed epidemiological link has been made between these cases and the third individual who attends Wey Valley Academy. This may mean that this strain of MenB bacteria is transmitting more widely among young people in Weymouth. Due to this, and as an additional precautionary measure, antibiotics and MenB vaccination will now be offered to young people currently in school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent), or anyone not in full time education who would be in one of these year groups, who study in or live in the Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell areas of Dorset.

Dr Beth Smout, UKHSA Deputy Director said:

''We are working closely with partners to follow up and offer precautionary antibiotics to close contacts of the cases. However, meningococcal disease does not spread easily, and outbreaks like we have seen recently in Kent are rare. These cases are not linked to the Kent outbreak and it is important to be aware that this outbreak is not on the same scale as we saw in Kent in terms of speed of transmission or severity.

''However, it is possible that we will see further cases linked to these latest cases in Weymouth and we understand that there will be concern among students, staff, parents and the local community as we widen our offer of antibiotics and vaccination. I’d like to stress that this is an additional precaution, and that we’re following national guidelines to reduce the risk of the infection spreading. School pupils and staff should attend school as normal if they remain well.

UKHSA is now recommending a single dose of antibiotics and a meningitis B vaccine be offered to young people who live or go to school in the Weymouth area, as follows:

-- anyone who is a resident in Weymouth or Portland or Chickerell and is in current school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent), or anyone not in full time education who would be in one of these year groups

-- anyone who attends an educational setting in the Weymouth, Portland or Chickerell area and is in current school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent).

This will be offered in stages starting with Budmouth Academy and Wey Valley schools, as the cases attend these settings. Pupils that attend other schools and other eligible children in Weymouth who do not attend school will be invited after the weekend.

Young people under 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is able to provide consent at the time.

More information on the vaccination schedule will be provided in due course.

Dr Smout added:

''Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, so it’s essential that everyone is alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed against a glass. If the disease is suspected, you should seek immediate medical attention as the disease can progress rapidly.

''It’s also important for teenagers to ensure they take up the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered by the NHS – but also to be aware that this vaccine does not protect against Men B, which is why knowing the symptoms and seeking early treatment is so important.

Young people in school years 7 to 13 in Weymouth are strongly encouraged to take up the offer of antibiotics and MenB vaccination and we are grateful to all those involved in our investigations so far for assisting us.

UKHSA and Dorset Council have issued advice to staff, parents and carers at all educational settings in the area.

Anyone who becomes unwell with symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia should seek medical help urgently at the closest Accident and Emergency Department or by dialling 999. Early treatment can be lifesaving. If you’re not sure if your symptoms are serious, use NHS 111 online or call 111 for further advice.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/antibiotics-and-menb-vaccination-to-be-offered-to-young-people-in-dorset

____

#UK, #England - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (Inf. with) (#poultry) - Immediate notification

{England, Lincoln Region} A commercial flock of 3,800 laying ducks. Samples taken were positive for HPAI H5N1. Birds presented clinical signs prior to testing.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7440

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 2 April 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 01 April 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 18 - 0 - 21

* 30 March 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 17 - 0 - 21

* 26 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 1 - 21

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 -  27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information are available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 31 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Notified cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent

-- As of 12:30pm on 30 March 2026, UKHSA has been notified of 21 confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease with epidemiological links to Canterbury, Kent.

-- All of the 21 confirmed cases are meningococcal group B (MenB). 17 of these have the outbreak strain subtype P1.12-1,16-183.

-- All cases have been hospitalised.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 30 March 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 17 - 0 - 21

* 26 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 1 - 21

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information are available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 27 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 26 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 1 - 21

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 26 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

{Excerpt}

(...) 

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 25 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

__

The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 24 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total confirmed cases - Confirmed MenB cases (subset of total confirmed cases) - Probable cases - Total cases]

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - 15

__

Note 1: The distinction between a confirmed case and a probable case was not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available. This applies to situations where:

- there are other negative results, for example, reference unit results 

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 23 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total confirmed cases - Confirmed MenB cases (subset of total confirmed cases) - Probable cases - Total cases]

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 -9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - 15

__

Note 1: The distinction between a confirmed case and a probable case was not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available. This applies to situations where:

- there are other negative results, for example, reference unit results 

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease (UKHSA, Updated 22 March 2026)

{Excerpt}

(...)

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total confirmed cases - Confirmed MenB cases (subset of total confirmed cases) - Probable cases - Total cases]

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - 9 - 29 {-5} 

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - 11 - 34 {+5} 

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - 11 - 29 {+2}

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - 12 - 27 {+7}

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - 11 - 20 {+5}

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - 15

__

Note 1: The distinction between a confirmed case and a probable case was not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information is available, that is:

- where there are other negative results, for example, reference unit results 

and 

- where there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal #disease - Updated 21 March 2026 (UKHSA)

 

Overview

-- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been investigating an invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) outbreak first detected in March 2026.

-- This release provides an up-to-date count of confirmed or probable notified cases connected to the incident, and will be updated regularly.

-- Case numbers will be recorded at 12:30pm each day, and will include only those defined as either confirmed or probable. These figures will be published the following day at 9:30am.

-- As this is a live incident, there will be additional suspected cases notified to UKHSA, which need to be actively investigated. These will not be reported until the investigation determines that they should be included as either confirmed or probable cases, or discarded as not related to the incident.

-- Case counts attached to the incident are provisional and subject to change (upwards or downwards) as intelligence about their connection to the incident improves, clinical assessment changes, or further microbiological characterisation becomes available. In outbreaks, case definitions are updated as new intelligence comes to light, which may affect the counts.

Notified cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent

-- As of 12:30pm on 20 March 2026, UKHSA has been notified of 23 confirmed and 11 probable cases of invasive meningococcal disease with epidemiological links to Canterbury, Kent.

- 18 of the 23 confirmed cases are meningococcal group B (MenB).

- All cases have been hospitalised.

- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

Daily case figures

-- The number of probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

-- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total confirmed cases - Confirmed MenB cases (subset of total confirmed cases) - Probable cases - Total cases]

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4  - [note 1] - 15

__

Note 1: The distinction between a confirmed case and a probable case was not reported

- The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

Definitions

-- Confirmed MenB case

- For the purposes of the official counts related to the outbreak detected in Kent, a confirmed MenB case is counted only where an individual meets the following criteria:

* a clinical diagnosis of meningitis, sepsis, or other invasive disease (for example orbital cellulitis, septic arthritis)

and at least one of the following:

* Neisseria meningitidis isolated from a normally sterile site

* Gram-negative diplococci identified in a normally sterile site

* meningococcal DNA in a normally sterile site

* meningococcal antigen in blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or urine

and

* a confirmed meningococcal group B result from the Meningococcal Reference Unit (MRU), UKHSA or accredited laboratory

and

* an onset of infection since 1 March 2026

and

* an epidemiological link to the outbreak (see definition below)

-- Confirmed case (awaiting microbiological group)

- As above, awaiting microbiological group result.

-- Probable case

- For the purposes of the official counts related to the outbreak detected in Kent, a probable case is counted only where an individual meets the following criteria:

* a clinical diagnosis of meningitis or sepsis or other invasive disease where a doctor and/or microbiologist considers that meningococcal infection is the most likely diagnosis

and

* an onset of infection since 1 March 2026

and

* an epidemiological link to the outbreak (see definition below)

-- Epidemiological link to the outbreak

- For the purposes of the official counts related to the outbreak detected in Kent, a case is considered to have an epidemiological link to the outbreak only where the individual meets any of the following criteria:

* lived in or visited Canterbury, Kent since 1 March 2026

or

* close contact with an outbreak confirmed or outbreak probable case

or

* close contact with an individual who, since 1 March 2026, has lived in or visited Canterbury, Kent

or

* close contact with an individual who falls into one or more groups who have been offered chemoprophylaxis as part of this outbreak

-- Data quality assurance

- Data quality was assured via a manual checking process. Case counts attached to the incident are provisional and subject to change (upwards or downwards) as intelligence about their connection to the incident improves, clinical assessment changes or further microbiological characterisation becomes available.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

____

#UK, #England: Expansion of #Meningitis B #vaccination offer to #Kent #Students (UKHSA, March 19 '26)

 

The Meningitis B vaccine will now be offered to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak.

-- Vaccination will now be extended to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak.

-- Preventative antibiotics – and vaccination – will also now be offered to the 6th form students (years 12 and 13) in schools and colleges in Kent where confirmed or probable cases are identified.

-- On a case-by-case basis, future risk assessment may also support use in other year groups or settings.

-- Students can, and should, continue to attend schools and colleges as normal. 

-- The NHS Kent and Medway website will be updated shortly with vaccination sites for those eligible.

-- The key intervention to protect people and halt the spread remains for people to come forward for antibiotic treatment. A single course of antibiotics is highly effective in preventing the contraction and spread of this disease in 90% of cases.

-- As a further precautionary measure, we are extending the offer of antibiotic prophylaxis and vaccine to any individuals who attended Club Chemistry from the 5 March until it closed voluntarily on 15 March.

-- 20,000 vaccines from the NHS supply will be made available to the private market, to ease current demand experienced by pharmacies. These will enter the private market within around 48 hours.

In response to the ongoing Meningitis B (MenB) outbreak in Kent, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is expanding the offer of preventative antibiotic treatment and vaccination to control the outbreak. 

Preventative antibiotic treatment and vaccination will now be offered to 6th sixth form students (years 12 and 13) in schools and colleges in Kent with confirmed or probable cases On a case-by-case basis, following risk assessment by the local health protection team, antibiotics and vaccination may also be made available to additional year groups. Students can, and should, continue to attend schools and colleges as normal.

In addition to the approximately 5,000 students who were initially contacted, vaccination will now be extended to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak. This includes University of Kent students who live on the Canterbury Campus and other relevant halls of residence; close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases, and students in four education settings in Kent where cases have been confirmed. Anyone who visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 15 March will also be offered a vaccine and antibiotics as a precaution after one suspected case revisited the nightclub before it shut voluntarily.

This extension ensures that those most likely to have been in close contact with confirmed or suspected cases are offered longer term protection as early as possible.

The NHS Kent and Medway website will be updated shortly with vaccination sites for those eligible.

Patients eligible for antibiotics will now be able to request a vaccination and antibiotics from their local GP immediately – wherever they are in England.

While preventative antibiotics remain the key intervention to protect people and halt the spread of infection, vaccination is being offered as an additional measure to provide longer term protection for those at increased risk.

Given current demand on the private MenB vaccine market, 20,000 doses will also be released from NHS supply to support continuity of private provision, enabling up to 2,000 pharmacies to receive vaccines in the next 48 hours.

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said: 

''By extending the vaccination programme to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotics, we are taking an important additional step to protect those most likely to have been exposed. The message is simple: if you have had the antibiotic, you are also eligible for the vaccination.

People are reminded to remain alert to the signs and symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease and to seek urgent medical attention if they or someone they know becomes unwell.

Background 

Meningococcal disease (meningitis and sepsis) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and sepsis (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis. 

The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital. 

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 meningitis 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. 

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and sepsis as early detection and treatment can save lives. 

Further information on meningococcal disease 

Meningitis, The Meningitis Research Foundation, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, UK: 080 8800 3344  -  Republic of Ireland: 1800 41 33 44  

Meningitis Now - 0808 80 10 388 (9am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 1pm Friday)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/expansion-of-meningitis-b-vaccination-offer-to-kent-students

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#Outbreak of invasive #meningococcal disease, SE #England - #Alert outlines recommended courses of action to manage cases with #infection and #contacts (#UKHSA, March 18 '26)

 

Invasive meningococcal disease: advice for the NHS in England

You may be aware of an evolving situation involving multiple cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) reported among young people linked to the University of Kent and the Canterbury area. 

More information about IMD, signs and symptoms to look out for, and approaches to clinical and public health management are provided in the accompanying Briefing Note. 

The purpose of this CAS Alert is to outline priority steps that primary care and hospital clinicians should consider taking to manage suspected cases, potential contacts of cases, and to reduce the risk of infection spreading. 

Note that this is a rapidly evolving situation and we will update advice as further information emerges.

Epidemiology

-- Between 13 and 17 March 2026, UKHSA identified 20 cases of invasive meningococcal disease in the South East. 

-- Six cases have been confirmed as Neisseria meningitidis group B. 

-- Most cases are students from the University of Kent, Canterbury, and sixth form students from local secondary schools. 

-- At least 10 cases attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury on 5, 6 or 7 March 2026. 

-- The illness has been severe with rapid deterioration, and 2 deaths have occurred.

Management of cases

Infection prevention and control (IPC) and personal protective equipment (PPE)

-- For patients presenting with suspected meningococcal disease, standard infection prevention and control precautions should be followed in line with the National infection prevention and control manual for England (see Appendix 11). 

-- Use appropriate PPE (including Level 2 PPE where clinically indicated) for assessment and management of suspected IMD:

- clinical staff should apply standard respiratory hygiene and infection control measures in routine clinical settings

- wear a fluid resistant surgical facemask for routine care of patients with suspected invasive meningococcal disease

- wear an FFP3 mask or Hood for aerosol-generating procedures performed on patients with suspected invasive meningococcal disease

- continue transmission-based precautions until the patient has been established on antibiotics for at least 24 hours

- no additional or enhanced IPC measures are required beyond those recommended in national guidance

Immediate case management

-- Patients with IMD may present with septicaemia and/or meningitis. 

-- Meningococcal sepsis should be considered in a rapidly deteriorating patient with sepsis even in the absence of a non-blanching rash, which is usually a late sign. 

-- Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion where a young person aged 16 to 30 attends with consistent signs or symptoms.

-- In a community setting, rapid admission to hospital is the highest priority when IMD is suspected. Conveyance to hospital should not be delayed for procurement or administration of antibiotics.

-- In acute settings, patients with sepsis should be managed according to local sepsis guidelines and immediate clinical management should focus on stabilisation (including fluid resuscitation as appropriate) and early engagement with ITU colleagues where necessary.

-- Initial treatment recommendations are as follows (full treatment regimens will be commenced during hospital admission):

- Immediate single dose of IV/IM Ceftriaxone for suspected meningococcal infections (Ceftriaxone, Drugs, BNFC, NICE):

Age/weight / Dose

- adults - dose: 2g stat

- children with body weight 50kg and over or aged 9 years and older: dose 2g stat

- children up to 50kg body weight or aged under 9 years: dose 80 to 100 mg/kg (maximum per dose 4g)

Alternatively, immediate single dose of IV/IM Benzylpenicillin sodium for suspected meningococcal infections where it is not possible to administer Ceftriaxone (Benzylpenicillin sodium, Drugs, BNF, NICE):

Age / Dose

- adults and children aged 10 years or over: dose of 1.2g

- children aged 1 to 9 years: dose of 600mg

- children aged under 1 year: dose of 300mg

Information regarding clinical samples that should be taken for suspected IMD cases and referring meningococcal-positive clinical materials (including isolates, PCR-positive clinical samples and/or DNA extracts, and lysate extracted from Biofire loading syringes) to the National Meningococcal Reference Laboratory, is included in UKHSA national guidance.

Notifying UKHSA

-- All suspected cases of invasive meningococcal disease are statutorily notifiable by registered medical practitioners to the responsible UKHSA health protection team, without waiting for laboratory confirmation.

-- Notify UKHSA by contacting your health protection team.

Management of contacts

Informing contacts

-- Remind any presenting contacts of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) and the importance of seeking urgent medical attention if they have symptoms (even if prophylaxis has been taken). 

-- Early detection and treatment can save lives. 

-- The UKHSA South East Health Protection Team have provided warn and inform information to all cases and close contacts and are liaising closely with all educational and other community settings to provide advice.

Providing antibiotic chemoprophylaxis

-- Close contacts of confirmed or probable cases are being identified by UKHSA and require antibiotic prophylaxis. 

-- Timely chemoprophylaxis will prevent cases of disease and will save lives. 

-- Antibiotic prophylaxis should be given as soon as possible (ideally within 24 hours) after the diagnosis of the index case, regardless of vaccination status.

-- Eligibility is defined in national UKHSA and NICE CKS guidance.

-- This includes people who had the following forms of contact during the 7 days before onset of illness in the index case:

- people who have had prolonged close contact with the case in a household-type setting

- intimate kissing or equivalent close contact

- exposure to respiratory secretions (for example, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation)

- other close contacts identified through UKHSA risk assessment

-- In response to this outbreak, a wider group of contacts have been identified as requiring antibiotic prophylaxis on a precautionary basis:

- Students who live on the Canterbury campus at the University of Kent

- Staff who live or work in affected halls of residence blocks on the Canterbury campus at the University of Kent

- Staff members working at Club Chemistry nightclub, Canterbury, and anyone who attended the nightclub as visitors on 5, 6 or 7 of March 2026.

-- Local clinics are offering chemoprophylaxis to contacts in the Canterbury area. If an eligible close contact presents to a healthcare setting (primary or secondary care) and has not already received prophylaxis through UKHSA‑coordinated clinics, this should be prescribed for them.

-- As the outbreak evolves, further groups may be identified that require antibiotic prophylaxis and will be communicated with directly.

-- Where an eligible close contact presents and has not already received prophylaxis please prescribe this as per National guidance.

The first line treatment is ciprofloxacin: 

Ciprofloxacin dosage (for one dose) [note1]

-- All to be given as a single dose:

Age / Dose

- adults and children aged 12 years and over: 500 mg stat

- children aged 5 to 11 years: 250 mg stat

- children aged 1 to 4 years: 125 mg stat

- infants under 1 year [note 2]: 30 mg/kg to a maximum 125mg stat

Note 1. Ciprofloxacin suspension contains 250 mg/5ml.

Note 2. prescribed off-label. 

-- If ciprofloxacin is not suitable, alternatives are listed in the national guidance.

-- Where demand exceeds capacity, ICBs are responsible for ensuring timely access to post‑exposure prophylaxis and vaccination in line with NHS England commissioning guidance.

Advice concerning vaccination

-- Given the severity of the outbreak, and as an additional precautionary measure, a targeted vaccination programme will begin, starting with students that are residents of the Canterbury Campus Halls of Residence at the University of Kent who will be contacted directly. 

-- Precise details of eligibility will be confirmed by UKHSA. UKHSA will continue to assess ongoing risk to other populations and the programme may be extended.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/outbreak-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-south-east-england

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#UK, #England: Cases of invasive #meningococcal #disease notified in #Kent (UKHSA, March 16 '26)

 

From: UK Health Security Agency

Published: 16 March 2026

Last updated: 16 March 2026 

Update 16 March

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent with 13 cases notified since 13 March. Sadly, this includes 2 people who are known to have died.

Investigations have confirmed some of the cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 to 7 March prior to becoming unwell. UKHSA’s health protection team is working closely with the nightclub and partners including the University of Kent to limit the spread.

UKHSA is now advising anyone who visited Club Chemistry on 5 March, 6 March or 7 March to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure. 

This can be collected from the following sites:

-- Senate Building at University of Kent, CT2 7NZ – open until 8pm on Monday 16 March (queue closes 7.15pm) and from 9am to 8pm on Tuesday 17 March.

-- Gate Clinic, Kent and Canterbury Hospital, Ethelbert Road, Canterbury, CT1 3NG - open until 8pm on Monday 16 March and planned to open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday 17 March.

-- Westgate Hall, Westgate Hall Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2BT. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday 17 March.

-- Carey Building, Thanet Hub, Margate Northwood Rd, Westwood, Broadstairs, CT10 2WA. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30 pm on Tuesday 17 March.

Advice has been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, where antibiotics are also being offered to those who need them.

Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include:

- a fever, 

- headache, 

- rapid breathing, 

- drowsiness, 

- shivering, 

- vomiting, and 

- cold hands and feet. 

Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.

Early 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 medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency. Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA Regional Deputy Director for the South East, said:

''Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.

''Our investigations have identified that some cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury and it is important that anyone who visited the club between 5 and 7 March now comes forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university – these students are being contacted directly through the university.

''If you think you may have symptoms of meningitis, do not hesitate to seek medical help by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111.

Background

Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.

The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.

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 meningitis 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.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY. It is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives. 

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-confirmed-in-kent

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