Meningitis B Outbreak – March 2026

You may have seen recent news reports about a meningitis outbreak in Kent, which has tragically resulted in deaths.

The cases have been confirmed as Meningitis B (MenB).

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is a group of infections that cause inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by different types of germs, including bacteria and viruses.

MenB can spread through saliva, such as from coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing utensils. Some people can carry the bacteria in their nose or throat without showing any symptoms.

Who is protected against MenB?

• The MenB vaccine is part of the NHS routine childhood schedule (given at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 1 year).
• Children can receive the vaccine up to the age of 2.
• The NHS does not offer the MenB vaccine to older children, teenagers, or adults.

MenB vaccinations became part of the NHS routine vaccination schedule in September 2015 - This means most people aged 11 and over have not been vaccinated against MenB unless they received it privately.

If you wish to have the MenB vaccine, it is available privately from some travel clinics and pharmacies, such as Masta Travel Health or Boots. Please contact them directly for availability and pricing.

Meningitis Vaccinations

The NHS offers several vaccines that protect against different types of meningitis.

More information about vaccinations and when to have them

What to do

It is important to recognise the symptoms of meningitis. These can include:

• High temperature
• Severe headache
• Neck stiffness
• Sensitivity to light
• Drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking
• Vomiting
• A rash that does not fade when pressed

Symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not appear at all. Meningitis can progress rapidly, so it is vital to seek medical help immediately. Do not wait for additional symptoms or for a rash to develop.

Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately  if you think you or someone in your care may have meningitis or sepsis.

Call NHS 111  for advice if you are unsure whether it is something serious.

Published: Mar 17, 2026