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Public health response to meningococcal cases in Dorset

21 April 2026

Proposing MP
Washington and Sunderland West
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses recent cases of meningococcal d [1D [K disease in Dorset and the public health response to contain its spread.

Action Requested

UKHSA is offering antibiotics and Bexsero vaccine to [2D [K to young people in Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell areas aged between sch [3D [K school years 7 to 13 as a precautionary measure. The Joint Committee on Vac [3D [K Vaccinations will re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines this summe [5D [K summer.

Key Facts

  • Three cases of MenB were confirmed among young people in [K Weymouth, Dorset.
  • Antibiotics and Bexsero vaccine are being offered to i [1D [K individuals aged between school years 7 to 13 living or studying in the aff [3D [K affected areas.
  • UKHSA has deployed 6500 doses of stockpiled antibiotics [K to the local area.
  • As of April 20, antibiotics have been given to 2226 i [1D [K individuals.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy