18 March 2026: Meningococcal B outbreak in UK
In Canterbury (Kent, United Kingdom), there is an outbreak of meningococcal B among students. Twenty people have become ill and two people have died.
In Kent, health services are distributing antibiotics to visitors of the club where the bacteria likely spread. The health authorities have also started a targeted vaccination campaign for students of the University of Kent who live on campus.
The disease spreads through droplets in the air, mainly in case of close contact. In addition, the bacteria can be transmitted through shared vapes or kissing. People other than students and young people who visited the club in the Kent region have only a very small chance of becoming ill. At this time, there are no additional measures required if you are visiting the United Kingdom.
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