An update on the meningitis vaccine has revealed that some individuals may not be fully protected even after receiving the vaccination.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the strain of meningitis identified in Kent is Meningitis B, which is the predominant cause of meningitis in the UK.
Although routine vaccination against the B strain has been standard for babies and young children since 2015, it was not a common practice for the latest group of students and young adults when they were younger. Presently, pupils aged 13 to 14 are being offered vaccinations against other strains of meningitis through school-run programs.
Tragically, two young adults lost their lives following an outbreak believed to have originated at the Club Chemical nightclub in Canterbury. Eighteen-year-old sixth form pupil Juliette and a 21-year-old University of Kent student, whose identity has not been disclosed, passed away, while over a dozen others were hospitalized for treatment.
The UKHSA has been notified of a total of 15 meningitis cases, with four confirmed as MenB infections. The agency reported, “As of 5pm on March 16, 2026, UKHSA has been informed of 15 cases of invasive meningococcal disease with connections to Canterbury, Kent. All cases have been hospitalized, with four confirmed as meningococcal B infections, resulting in two fatalities.”
Speaking in the House of Commons, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated that the risk to the general public remains low, but the government is actively tracing individuals who had close contact with those diagnosed with the disease.
Streeting also mentioned, “If you are a University of Kent student who may have left campus, arrangements are being made for you to visit your GP and receive antibiotics there.”
Trish Mannes, UKHSA Regional Deputy Director for the South East, highlighted that individuals requiring antibiotic treatment are responding to the calls to come forward and efforts are being made in coordination with the NHS to provide treatment at various locations throughout the day.
An appeal was made for anyone who visited Club Chemistry between March 5th and 7th to seek preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution. Investigations have confirmed that some cases are Men B, emphasizing the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking prompt treatment, as the MenACWY vaccine typically given to teenagers does not safeguard against Men B.
Individuals showing symptoms of meningitis are urged to promptly seek medical assistance by contacting their GP or calling NHS 111.