The meningitis B outbreak in Kent is serious. But it is not what we had in 2020 and it never will be. Meningitis B is a bacterial infection. It spreads through prolonged close contact — kissing, sharing drinks, living together. It does not travel through the air. It does not linger in ventilation systems. It cannot reach strangers across a room. That is why the UK Health Security Agency has not recommended masks. Not once. Their entire response is built around antibiotics for close contacts and contact tracing. That is the correct response for this type of infection. If you are in Canterbury and you visited Club Chemistry between 5th and 7th March — go and get your free antibiotics now. No appointment needed. Know the symptoms. Sudden high fever. Severe headache. Stiff neck. A rash that doesn’t fade when you press a glass against it. Cold hands and feet. If you or someone you know develops these — call 999 or go straight to A&E. For everyone else — your risk is very low. The UKHSA has confirmed this. Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield received a direct briefing from UKHSA confirming meningitis requires fairly intimate contact to spread. Wearing a mask in public will not protect you. It is not in the guidance because it does not apply here. Stay informed. Not scared