Meningitis B outbreak: what people affected by blood cancer need to know
You may have seen recent news about a meningitis B (MenB) outbreak in Kent.
This is a serious situation. Meningococcal disease can develop quickly and needs urgent medical attention. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.
We know that people affected by blood cancer may feel worried when they hear about infections like this. This blog explains what is happening, where to find trusted information, and what it means for you right now.
General news - 20 Mar 2026 - Leukaemia Care
What is happening
The current outbreak appears to be linked to a specific group and location, mainly young people connected to the Canterbury area.
Public health teams are responding quickly. They are offering antibiotics and vaccines to people who are most at risk.
At this stage, there has been no change to national guidance. For most people, the overall risk remains low. This is not being treated as a widespread national outbreak.
Where to get trusted information
The best place to get up-to-date advice is directly from government and NHS sources.
This includes information on:
- Signs and symptoms to look out for
- What to do if you think someone may be unwell
- Who may be offered antibiotics or vaccination
You can read the latest official guidance here:
https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/03/18/meningitis-b-outbreak-what-you-need-to-know/
Meningitis Now, a PIF-tick accredited provider of information on Meningitis are also a great credible source of information. Find their website at www.meningitisnow.org
Our position
We know some people may be asking whether more people, including those with blood cancer, should be offered the MenB vaccine.
At this stage, the situation is changing quickly and public health teams are responding in real time. Because of this, we are not planning to lobby the government on vaccine eligibility at this point.
Our focus is on making sure people have clear, accurate information and know what to do if they are concerned.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely. If the outbreak changes, or if guidance is updated in a way that affects people with blood cancer or other vulnerable groups, we will share clear, tailored information.
Where appropriate, we would also work with partner organisations, including the Blood Cancer Alliance and Cancer52, to help raise awareness and make sure important updates reach the people who need them.
What to do if you are worried
If you are worried about symptoms of meningitis, it is important to seek medical help urgently.
Symptoms to look out for
You should seek urgent medical help if you or someone else has symptoms of meningitis or sepsis.
Symptoms can include:
- A high temperature (fever)
- Cold hands and feet, limb pain, pale or mottled skin
- Vomiting
- Severe headache
- A stiff neck
- Dislike of bright lights
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Confusion
- Seizures (fits)
Some people may develop a rash that does not fade when you press it.
Symptoms can appear in any order and can get worse quickly. Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, get medical help straight away.
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