Kent’s in the news over a meningitis B outbreak in the region; quick reporting criticized by Health Sec. Background: public research uni founded 1965.
As of March 27, 2026, a meningitis B outbreak linked to a 'super-spreader' event at Canterbury's Club Chemistry nightclub has resulted in at least 29 confirmed and suspected cases, including two deaths. The infection has spread to multiple universities and schools in Kent and one case in London. Authorities have launched targeted vaccination and antibiotic treatment campaigns to contain the outbreak.