Summary
A meningitis B vaccination program in Kent, UK, has expanded after a deadly outbreak linked to a local nightclub. University students and others who visited certain locations are now eligible for the vaccine, resulting in long queues. The outbreak has caused two deaths, and many cases have been reported, leading to increased public health measures.
Key Facts
- The meningitis B vaccination program in Kent was expanded due to an outbreak.
- The outbreak is linked to Club Chemistry in Canterbury, with visitors from March 5-15 now eligible for the vaccine.
- There are 27 confirmed or suspected meningitis cases related to the outbreak.
- Two students, aged 21 and 18, have died from the disease.
- Long queues formed at the University of Kent for vaccines, leading to some being turned away.
- NHS England reported that 1,600 vaccines had been given by Thursday evening.
- Additional vaccination centers were set to open to accommodate the high demand.
- The UK Health and Security Agency issued alerts for doctors to monitor meningitis symptoms closely.
