The outbreak, described as 'unprecedented' by health officials, has resulted in 20 confirmed and 9 probable cases, all requiring hospital admission, according to major media reports. The strain is meningitis B (MenB), as reported by multiple sources. The victims include an 18-year-old sixth form pupil named Juliette Kenny and a 21-year-old University of Kent student.
A targeted vaccination programme for University of Kent students in halls of residence has been announced, with over 8,000 MenB vaccines administered in Kent, according to major media. Antibiotics have been distributed to thousands, with 2,500 doses initially and 10,500 total, per three sources. The MenB vaccine is not routinely offered to older teenagers and young adults; it was introduced for babies in 2015.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating whether the bacteria has evolved to spread more easily, according to major media. A hospital trust delayed reporting a suspected case by two days, but Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the delay did not have a material impact on the outbreak, per multiple sources. Pharmacies have seen a surge in demand for private MenB vaccines, with Superdrug reporting a 65-fold increase, according to major media.
Health experts warn that sharing vapes may increase the risk of spreading meningitis, per multiple sources. Additional cases include a student at Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, a student at Escape Studios in London (unclear if linked), and a Morrisons distribution centre worker in Sittingbourne who visited Club Chemistry, per major media. The family of Juliette Kenny is campaigning for routine MenB vaccination for teenagers, according to major media.
France was accused of withholding information about a meningitis case for 48 hours, according to the UK government.