More meningitis vaccination centres are due to open across Kent today to help meet demand, after more than 100 students were turned away trying to get the jab amid the deadly outbreak.
The University of Kent closed the line for vaccines on its Canterbury campus “due to capacity” issues yesterday afternoon, despite a government push to reach more people.
The university’s clinic will reopen today from 9am until 5pm, with people advised to be in line by 2pm.
Other sites expected to be open include Faversham Health Centre and Vicarage Lane Clinic in Ashford.
The Gate Clinic at Kent and Canterbury Hospital will be open through the weekend for walk-ins.
So far, more than 8,500 antibiotics and 1,600 vaccines have been administered to eligible people in Kent.
Who is eligible?
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Health Secretary Wes Streeting said anyone who attended Club Chemistry from March 5 until March 15 will be offered the jab, alongside sixth-formers at four schools and other university students in Canterbury.
Anyone in England who is eligible for antibiotics can request a vaccination from their local GP.
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What’s the latest on cases?
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed 15 cases of meningitis, with another 12 under investigation.
Currently, nine of the 15 confirmed cases are known to be caused by menB.
Two students have died during the outbreak.
Health officials are expected to give an update at a media briefing in Kent later – you can follow updates in our dedicated live blog.
