Kent meningitis B outbreak prompts NHS warning and student vaccination drive
Health chiefs are investigating 27 meningitis cases linked to an outbreak in Kent, including infections at Canterbury Christ Church University and a London student, with two deaths. Preventive antibiotics are being offered to visitors to a Kent club linked to the outbreak and a vaccination drive for University of Kent students is underway. Meningitis B (Neisseria meningitidis group B) can progress quickly to sepsis; symptoms include high fever, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, rash and sensitivity to light. If meningitis is suspected, call 999 or go to A&E; vaccines exist as part of the UK schedule, with catch-up opportunities up to age 25 for those who missed school vaccination.
- What is meningitis B? Symptoms, vaccine and what to avoid as NHS staff issued urgent warning The Independent
- As a Meningitis Outbreak Spreads in Kent, UK, Here’s What to Know The New York Times
- Number of meningitis cases linked to Kent outbreak rises to 27 The Guardian
- Cases of invasive meningococcal disease notified in Kent GOV.UK
- Club Chemistry closed until meningitis is 'under control' - owner BBC
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