Nearly 12,000 Invited for Meningitis Jab After Fatalities

Nearly 12,000 individuals who received a meningitis vaccine in response to a March outbreak are now eligible for their second dose. This proactive measure follows a serious outbreak that tragically claimed two lives and infected 19 others, with the source believed to be a Canterbury nightclub. The second vaccine dose is available from April 13.

Eligible individuals in Kent can book appointments through an online system starting Monday. Clinics and other sites in Canterbury, Faversham, and Ashford will offer vaccination slots. Details for booking can be found on the Kent and Medway Integrated Care System's dedicated webpage.

The targeted vaccination program, initiated by the UK Health Security Agency, initially focused on university students and those who received preventative antibiotics. The eligible group has since expanded to include staff, close contacts, students from other Canterbury institutions, patrons of Club Chemistry between March 5-15, and specific school pupils. First doses are available until April 16.

This outbreak prompted a significant public health response, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting describing it as "unprecedented." While the MenB vaccine is standard for babies born after July 2015, older individuals typically do not have access to a catch-up program. Streeting has requested a review of this policy. A separate vaccine for A, C, W, and Y strains is available for individuals up to age 25.