Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Update on the outbreak of meningococcal disease

23 March 2026 · Department of Health and Social Care

Proposed by Wes Streeting Lab Ilford North

NHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The UKHSA has deployed antibiotics and vaccines to control an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent.
  • The Minister has asked the JCVI to re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines to consider an expanded offer to older children and young adults.
  • Vaccinations are being offered to those at highest risk, including students and individuals who visited Club Chemistry.

Issue summary

The statement addresses an ongoing outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent.

Action requested

UKHSA has deployed antibiotics and vaccines to control the outbreak. The Minister has requested the JCVI to re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines, considering an expanded offer to older children and young adults. Vaccinations are being offered to those at highest risk, including students and individuals who visited Club Chemistry.

Key facts

  • As of 5pm on 22 March, there were 29 cases identified (20 confirmed, 9 probable).
  • 16 cases involve higher education students from the University of Kent and Canterbury Christchurch University.
  • UKHSA deployed 50,000 doses of antibiotics, with 12,837 administered as of 22 March.
  • 9,611 vaccinations had been administered to those at highest risk by 22 March.
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