Kent Meningitis Outbreak - a message from NHS Surrey

We are extremely sad to hear of the meningitis outbreak in Canterbury and subsequent deaths. Along with partners, we are monitoring the situation closely.  Please check the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) website for updates as well as our own website.

Below is an FAQ which sets out the key information Surrey residents need to know now. This is based on national guidance, but if this changes we will let you know.

Has there been a meningitis outbreak in Surrey?

No. There is no evidence yet of wider spread outside of Kent and public health teams are taking precautionary action to reduce further risk of it spreading. 

Who is eligible for preventative antibiotics and the MenB vaccine?

Following current national guidance, preventative antibiotics and the MenB vaccine are only being offered to those who fall within the follwing groups:

  • All students who live on Canterbury campus
  • All staff who live or work in affected Halls of Residence
  • Anyone who attended Club Chemistry on 5th, 6th and 7th March
  • Close contacts who have been identified by UKHSA

Therefore, if someone has returned to Surrey from Kent and meets any of the above criteria, even if they do not have symptoms, they are eligible for treatment.

They should contact their local GP or call the UKHSA helpline on 0344 225 3861.

Can other children or adults be vaccinated now?

Meningitis vaccinations are only offered at specific ages as part of the NHS routine infant vaccination schedule (see below).  This includes the MenB vaccine.  There is currently no programme for older children or adults, except for those connected to the Kent Outbreak.

A record of a child's vaccinations can be seen in their Red Book or via their parent or guardian's NHS App.

However, the vaccines do not protect against every strain of meningitis, so it’s important to know the symptoms and seek urgent help if they appear.

  • MenB:

Given at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year, with catch‑up available only up to age 2.

  • MenACWY:

Given in school Year 9, with catch‑up available up to age 25.

If a MenACWY catch-up vaccination is required, there is a schedule of local community clinics where this can be done.

What if a person is in a vulnerable group?

Unless they have been identified as a close contact in relation to the Kent Outbreak, they do not need antibiotics and there is nothing specific for them to do. They can underake their usual activities.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

Symptoms can develop quickly and may include:

  • a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
  • sudden onset of high fever
  • severe and worsening headache
  • stiff neck
  • vomiting and diarrhoea
  • joint and muscle pain
  • dislike of bright lights
  • very cold hands and feet
  • seizures
  • confusion/delirium
  • extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking

Symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not appear at all. Do not wait for a rash to appear. If someone is ill and getting worse, trust your instincts and get immediate medical help.

More information about meningitis is available on the NHS website.

Published on 19 March 2026