Outbreak of meningococcal disease

The UK Health Security Agency and NHS England have written to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), general practice and out hours services regarding the outbreak of meningococcal disease linked to University of Kent and the area of Canterbury. Where an eligible contact presents and has not already received antibiotic prophylaxis these should be prescribed as per national guidance. For Kent and Medway, local arrangements are in place to manage the high demand. If working in this area, follow local pathways.

As part of the response to this outbreak, a further letter has been sent to general practice about providing MenB vaccinations upon request to a small cohort of patients who cannot access vaccination at local vaccination clinics at the University of Kent, for example, because they have returned home from campus.