Meningitis Outbreak

As you would have seen in recent news reports regarding a meningitis outbreak in Kent, which has very sadly resulted in the deaths of two young people. If you believe you belong to one of these cohorts below, please contact the practice. Currently, no other patients are eligible for preventative prophylactic antibiotics.

UKHSA advises that antibiotic chemoprophylaxis is being offered to:

• All students who live on Canterbury campus
• All staff who live or work in affected Halls of Residence
• Anyone who attended Club Chemistry on 5th, 6th and 7th March
• Close contacts who have been identified by UKHSA

Further information is available on the UK government website

Meningitis Vaccinations

The NHS offers free vaccines to protect against Meningitis and related infections.

Key vaccines

• MenB vaccine for babies (8 weeks, 12 weeks, 1 year)
• 6-in-1, Pneumococcal, Hib/MenC, MMR/MMRV - part of the routine childhood schedule
• MenACWY vaccine for teenagers (age 13–14)

If your child has missed a MenB vaccination, they may still be able to receive it free of charge before their second birthday. MenACWY catch-ups are available free of charge up to the age of 25.

What should you do?

Make sure you and your children are up to date with vaccinations and contact your GP practice if you have any questions or need to book an appointment. It is also important to be aware of symptoms and seek urgent medical advice if you are concerned.

Published: Mar 18, 2026