Kent Meningitis Outbreak Strain Explained as Group B Bacteria
The deadly meningitis outbreak in Kent has now been linked to 29 cases, with health officials completing a genetic analysis of the responsible strain. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the pathogen belongs to a group of bacteria known as group B meningococci, specifically sequence type 485 within the larger clonal complex ST-41/44.
What Is the Strain of Meningitis B in Kent?
Following detailed genetic analysis, experts have identified the strain as part of the group B meningococci family. John Lees, group leader at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), described these findings as "low-resolution molecular fingerprints that don’t tell us that much on their own." He added, "What we do know is that this strain has probably been circulating since 2010 but increasing in frequency since then." Further analysis is ongoing to gain deeper insights into the strain's characteristics and transmission patterns.
Is This a New Variant of Meningitis?
No, this is not a new variant. The strain has been previously identified in the United Kingdom, although experts suggest it "appears to be a new subvariant." The UKHSA noted that similar strains have been circulating in the UK for approximately five years, but detailed analysis of the outbreak pathogen is still required. Brendan Wren, professor of microbial pathogenesis at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), stated, "The menB ST-41/44 clonal complex has been previously identified in the UK, but the strain circulating in Kent appears to be a new subvariant."
Does the Current Vaccine Work Against This Strain?
Yes, the Bexsero menB vaccine should provide effective protection against this strain. Health authorities have emphasized that vaccination remains a crucial tool in controlling the outbreak and preventing further spread.
How Many Cases Have Been Reported So Far?
As of Friday, the UKHSA reported that the number of cases linked to the outbreak in Kent has reached 29, up from 27. Among these, 18 cases have been confirmed, with an additional 11 classified as "probable cases." Thirteen of the 18 confirmed cases are specifically menB. All cases have required hospital admission, highlighting the severity of the infection.
Should We Expect More Cases in the Coming Days?
Experts indicate that confirmed cases are likely to rise, although there are suggestions that the "peak" has already passed. Paul Hunter, professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia, explained, "The incubation period though a little uncertain ranges from two to 10 days, so I think we can be fairly certain that the peak from the initial superspreading event will have already passed." However, Prof Hunter warned that secondary cases—infections from individuals who did not contract the disease at the initial source but from someone else who was there—remain a possibility. Dr Michael Head, senior research fellow in global health at the University of Southampton, added, "Given the extent of contact tracing from public health teams, and the widespread publicity, it is plausible that we are seeing the tail-end of this outbreak."
How Many Doses of Vaccine and Antibiotics Have Been Administered?
As of 5pm on Thursday, March 19, health officials reported that 2,360 vaccinations had been administered and 9,840 doses of antibiotics had been prescribed in response to the outbreak. More vaccination centres have been opened to facilitate access. A facility at Faversham health centre began administering jabs at 9am on Friday and will remain open through Saturday. Additional clinics are scheduled to open on Saturday at the Vicarage Lane clinic in Ashford and at the University of Kent, according to NHS England. The Gate clinic at Kent and Canterbury Hospital has been open on Friday and will continue through the weekend for walk-ins. It is important to note that two doses of the vaccine are required for full protection, with an interval of four weeks between doses.
