Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is most commonly caused by viruses or bacteria, but can also be due to fungi or parasites. While anyone can get it, infants, young children, and adolescents are particularly vulnerable, with bacterial forms being a medical emergency.
Transmission methods vary. Please consult CDC or WHO resources for specific information.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
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Meningitis cases are on the rise in Kent, leading to long queues for vaccines as the public responds to the increasing threat. This indicates an active and concerning increase in a serious infectious disease.
📊 49 news sources reporting on this story.
First reported: 2026-03-17
The UK is experiencing an unprecedented resurgence of meningococcal B (MenB) disease, with a significant cluster of cases reported in Kent. This represents a critical public health emergency due to the severity and rapid spread of the infection.
📊 155 news sources reporting on this story.
First reported: 2026-03-26
An ongoing meningitis outbreak is posing a particular risk to individuals over 50 years old. Medical experts are advising awareness and caution for this demographic due to the severity of the disease.
📊 101 news sources reporting on this story.
First reported: 2026-03-16
A meningitis outbreak at the University of Kent has seen cases drop to 29 from an initial 34, prompting queues for vaccines and antibiotics. Public health officials are actively managing the situation to contain the spread.
📊 46 news sources reporting on this story.
First reported: 2026-03-18
A woman survived a severe case of meningitis and sepsis, resulting in the loss of her limbs. The news highlights the critical symptoms of meningitis, urging the public to learn them for early detection and prevention of this serious infectious disease.
📊 251 news sources reporting on this story.
First reported: 2026-03-16
Meningitis remains a major public health concern in northern Ghana, which lies within the African meningitis belt and experiences recurrent seasonal outbreaks during the dry season.
Source: BEACON - View Full Report
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-19
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