Scientists discover why Kent meningitis outbreak was so severe
Summary
Scientists found that a new, more harmful type of meningitis B bacteria caused the outbreak in Kent earlier this year. This new strain formed when the bacteria exchanged genetic material with other germs in people's throats, leading to severe illness mainly among young people at a nightclub.Key Facts
- Over 20 young people, mostly students, got infected in the March outbreak linked to a Canterbury nightclub.
- Nine patients were in intensive care and two died during this outbreak.
- Scientists discovered the bacteria gained new genes from other throat germs, creating a new strain.
- This new strain spread among club-goers due to close contact and social mixing.
- Meningitis spreads through close contact like kissing or sharing drinks.
- The outbreak was short-lived because very sick people were less likely to unknowingly spread the disease.
- The UK is offering a meningitis B vaccine to young people starting university to protect against this strain.
- Teenagers around age 15 are now recommended to get the vaccine through the NHS with catch-up programs for missed vaccination.
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