Meningitis Outbreak: Update

You may have seen reports of a meningitis outbreak in Kent. The risk to most people remains low, but we understand this may be worrying.

Checking your vaccination status

We are currently receiving a high number of requests.

If you would like us to check your meningitis vaccination record, please complete this online form

We will review your record
If you are eligible for an NHS vaccine, we will contact you to arrange this

Who can have the MenACWY vaccine?

Young people who missed their MenACWY vaccine at school can have it up to their 25th birthday
This is especially important before starting college or university

Vaccines and protection

Vaccines can protect against some types of meningitis:

MenACWY vaccine – for young people who missed their dose
Childhood vaccines – protect babies and young children
MMR vaccine – protects against infections that can lead to meningitis

Symptoms to look out for

High temperature (fever)
Bad headache
Stiff neck
Feeling sick or being sick
Sleepy or hard to wake
Bright light hurts the eyes

In babies and young children:

Not feeding well
Floppy or very sleepy
High-pitched cry

Some people get a rash that does not fade.

Press a glass on the rash
If it does not fade, go to A&E

Not everyone gets a rash

Further information

Read more about meningitis, vaccines and the current outbreak:

Published: Mar 18, 2026