Meningitis B latest: New cases recorded in Dorset as antibiotics offered to young people in area

A student receiving an injection in the sports hall at the University of Kent campus in Canterbury (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Wire)

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Three cases of meningitis B have been confirmed in young people in Weymouth.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) added that those affected in Dorset are recovering well.

Antibiotics and vaccines are now being offered to young people currently in school years 7 to 13 across the Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell areas of Dorset.

The UKHSA said the three cases were confirmed between 20 March and 15 April.

The three students affected have received treatment and are “recovering well”, it said, adding that close contacts have already been offered antibiotics as a precaution.

Two of the young people attended Budmouth Academy, a large secondary school in Weymouth, while the other attended Wey Valley Academy, a separate secondary school.

Information about the signs and symptoms of meningitis have been shared with students and parents of both schools, the UKHSA said.

The three cases have been confirmed as menB and are the same sub-strain type – but a different sub-strain – to the cases seen in Kent last month, which left two students dead.

Three students affected have received treatment and are ‘recovering well’

The three students affected have received treatment and are “recovering well”, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said, adding that close contacts have already been offered antibiotics as a precaution.

Two of the young people attended Budmouth Academy, a large secondary school in Weymouth, while the other attended Wey Valley Academy, a separate secondary school.

Tara Cobham17 April 2026 13:12

Antibiotics and vaccines being offered to school pupils in areas of Dorset

Antibiotics and vaccines are now being offered to young people currently in school years 7 to 13 across the Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell areas of Dorset.

Tara Cobham17 April 2026 13:11