Important Information for Students: Recent Meningitis (MenB) Outbreak
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a recent outbreak of meningococcal disease (MenB) affecting students linked to the University of Kent and nearby sixth‑form students. Although this outbreak is not local to Nottingham, we want our student community to be informed, vigilant, and aware of how to protect themselves.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is a serious but uncommon bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) or sepsis. It can develop very quickly, so recognising symptoms early and seeking urgent medical help is vital.
How does it spread?
The bacteria spread through close, prolonged contact such as:
- living in the same household
- kissing
- sharing drinks, vapes, or utensils
Who is being offered antibiotics in the affected area?
UKHSA is offering preventative antibiotics (prophylaxis) to:
- students and staff in affected accommodation, and
- anyone who attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury on 5–7 March
This helps prevent further spread.
Vaccination
A targeted MenB vaccination programme is underway for students living in affected on‑campus accommodation in Kent. This is not a national programme, and eligibility is defined by UKHSA. If you are a teenager or young adult born before 1 May 2015, you will not have received the MenB vaccine as part of the NHS schedule. If you are not currently being offered the vaccine, the risk to the wider public remains low. The MenB bacteria is not as contagious as infections such as measles or COVID-19, transmission requires close and prolonged contact.
Vaccines all students should already have
Some routine NHS vaccines offer protection against types of meningitis:
- MenACWY vaccine – recommended for teenagers and students
- MMR vaccine – protects against measles, mumps and rubella
If you have not had your MenACWY or MMR vaccine, please book an appointment with us.
What to do if you feel unwell
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop symptoms that could suggest meningitis or sepsis, such as:
- severe headache
- fever
- drowsiness, confusion
- stiff neck
- dislike of bright lights
- rash (may or may not appear)
Symptoms can appear in any order and may not all be present. If concerned, do not wait—get medical help immediately.
How to protect yourself
- Register with a GP in Nottingham if you haven’t already.
- Check your vaccination status and book catch‑up vaccines if needed.
- Maintain good hygiene and avoid sharing drinks, vapes, or utensils.
- Know the symptoms and seek urgent help if unwell.
Reassurance for our students
The outbreak remains localised to Kent, and national guidance has not changed. UKHSA advises vigilance but not additional measures outside the affected area.
We will continue to monitor updates from UKHSA and NHS England and will update our website if guidance changes.
