Kent meningitis cluster sparks vaccine policy rethink for teens

A Kent meningitis outbreak with 20 confirmed cases and two deaths has prompted scientists to explore whether a new bacterial variant, waning immunity among teens, or crowded social settings drove transmission, and to reassess whether teenagers or university students should be offered the MenB vaccine. While meningitis remains extremely rare, experts say the future is uncertain and policy may change if cases rise, as health authorities note a 40-50% chance of more cases but a low chance of a widespread outbreak.