- Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced an expanded meningitis B vaccination programme in Kent, targeting individuals linked to an outbreak originating from Club Chemistry in Canterbury.
- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed 27 cases of meningitis (confirmed or suspected), including nine identified as menB, with two student fatalities reported.
- The expanded programme offers vaccinations and antibiotics to anyone who attended Club Chemistry between 5th and 15th March, along with sixth-formers at four schools and additional university students in Canterbury.
- Streeting clarified that the general public's risk is "extremely low" but advised against sharing items like vapes and drinks, as the infection spreads through close personal contact.
- UKHSA experts, including Professor Robin May, described the outbreak as "very unusual," investigating whether specific behaviours or a more transmissible bacterial strain are contributing factors, noting it is not yet contained.
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