News
Meningitis B Cases Rise in Kent: Over 8,000 Vaccinations Administered
Health officials have confirmed 34 cases of meningitis in Kent, England, and are investigating others. Over 8,000 meningitis B vaccines have been administered since the outbreak began.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that of the 34 cases of meningitis, 23 have been confirmed, with 11 still under investigation. Eighteen of the confirmed cases are meningitis B. All those affected have been admitted to hospital. A further update from the UKHSA is expected. Hundreds of students and other eligible people queued to receive vaccinations and antibiotics. Staff at the University of Kent campus clinic in Canterbury stated that the vaccine rollout process had become efficient, with shorter queues and waiting times.
Key Facts
- The number of meningitis cases in Kent has increased to 34.
- The UK Health Security Agency is investigating 11 of the 34 cases.
- Eighteen of the 23 confirmed cases are meningitis B.
- Since the outbreak began, over 8,000 meningitis B vaccines have been distributed.
- All confirmed meningitis cases have required hospital admission.
- The University of Kent campus clinic in Canterbury reported shorter queues and waiting times for vaccinations.
- Some individuals reported waiting in line since 7 a.m. on Saturday, and one person claimed to have been waiting since 5 a.m.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Surrey Advertiser Online — UKHSA meningitis update after hundreds queued on Saturday March 21