Health secretary slams ‘anti-science’ stances amid meningitis B outbreak in Kent

Health & Fitness
17 Mar 2026 • 10:42 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, has cautioned against a return to “Victorian conditions” due to “anti-science” stances amid a meningitis B outbreak in Kent.
  • The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of two young people.
  • The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has launched a targeted vaccination programme for students residing in Canterbury halls of residence at the University of Kent.
  • Around 700 doses of antibiotics have been administered in response to the outbreak.
  • Streeting expressed his hope that the incident would encourage the public to take up available vaccinations, warning against misinformation and irresponsible political positioning.

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