Kent's meningitis outbreak - how it exploded, can it be stopped?

Kent's meningitis outbreak - how it exploded, can it be stopped?

Author: The Times March 19, 2026 Duration: 30:00

What began as an evening out at a nightclub in Kent has rapidly spiralled into a "super-spreader" event that has left doctors stunned and two young people dead. This surge in Meningitis B cases has triggered a public health alert, leaving the UK scrambling as private vaccine supplies run dry. So how can the authorities contain this unprecedented outbreak?


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Guests: 

  • Eleanor Hayward, Health Editor, The Times. 
  • Professor Paul Hunter, Professor in Medicine, the University of East Anglia.
  • Niamh Curran, reporter, The Times Enterprise Network.

Host: Manveen Rana. 

Producers: Julia Webster, Callum Martin, Olivia Case. 

We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com


Read more: 

Meningitis B outbreak: six cases after Kent superspreader event.

Meningitis started with a headache. Then the blinding pain began.

What causes meningitis? Symptoms and how the infection spreads.


Further listening: Inside the world of "Looksmaxxing"

Clips: Sky

Photo: Denise Kelly, Getty Images.

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Each morning, The Story arrives with a clear purpose: to move beyond the headlines and explore the forces and people shaping our world. Guided by the experienced reporting of Manveen Rana and Luke Jones, this daily podcast from The Times delves into the most significant political developments and news events with a level of depth and context that only their global network of journalists can provide. You’ll hear more than just summaries; you’ll get a nuanced understanding of why a story matters, who it impacts, and what might happen next. The analysis is sharp and the storytelling is compelling, designed to fit into your morning routine seven days a week. It’s a direct line to the frontline reporting and editorial expertise of one of the world’s most respected news organizations. This consistent, in-depth approach makes the podcast a reliable resource for anyone looking to truly comprehend the day’s events. Supported by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times, the production maintains a commitment to journalistic integrity and thorough exploration, ensuring every episode provides substance and clarity.
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