Meningitis B Cases in Ireland: HSE Reassures Public Amid UK Outbreak
Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has moved to reassure the public that the recent outbreak of meningitis B in England has not led to an increase in cases within the country. While an outbreak in Kent, England, has resulted in 15 confirmed cases and 12 under investigation, with two fatalities, Irish health officials report no evidence of a similar surge domestically.
Current Situation in Ireland
As of March 20, 2026, nine cases of meningitis B have been confirmed in Ireland this year. The HSE states that these cases are not linked to the outbreak currently occurring in Kent, England. To date in 2026, a total of 12 cases of meningococcal disease have been reported in Ireland, with no deaths recorded. [RTE]
Historical Data on Meningococcal Disease in Ireland
The HSE continues to monitor meningococcal disease activity in Ireland. In 2025, 60 cases of meningococcal disease were reported, 38 of which were serogroup B. In 2024, 66 cases were reported, with 42 identified as serogroup B. [Independent.ie] Routine surveillance indicates that meningococcal disease remains a rare, but serious, infection with sporadic cases occurring annually.
Vaccination and Prevention
The MenB vaccine is included in Ireland’s national childhood immunisation schedule for babies born on or after October 1, 2016, administered in three doses at two, four, and 12 months of age. [HSE] Meningococcal type B disease is most common in infants under one year old, and the vaccine schedule reflects this. There is currently no catch-up Men B vaccine program for older children.
The MenACWY vaccine, protecting against meningococcal strains A, C, W, and Y, is offered in the first year of secondary school. [HPSC] HSE school immunisation teams are currently administering this vaccine in schools nationwide.
Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Symptoms include fever, severe headache, vomiting, rapid breathing, cold hands and feet, drowsiness, and a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms develop, as the condition can deteriorate rapidly.
Ongoing Monitoring and Collaboration
The HSE’s national Public Health team is maintaining regular contact with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to monitor the evolving situation in Kent. The UKHSA has advised that further cases are possible. [HPSC]