As of 19 March 2026, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has updated guidance to offer some students at the University of Kent a vaccine. Recognising that many students have returned home before receiving a vaccine through a local vaccination clinic, GP surgeries are now able to administer MenB vaccination to anyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak. At the present time, this includes
• Students at the University of Kent who are normally resident on the Canterbury Campus, including those who may have now travelled home. Some staff living or working in these Halls of Residence have also been offered antibiotic prophylaxis.
• Students in relevant halls of residence or other private dwellings who attend other universities in Canterbury and have been advised to take an antibiotic due to a close contact.
• Individuals who attended Club Chemistry from 5 March until it closed voluntarily on March 16.
A Meningitis B patient helpline, run by UKHSA, is now available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, for anyone who does not have symptoms, but is concerned they have been in contact with a confirmed case, or who has a general enquiry. Please call 0344 225 3861.