Suspected meningitis case in Wigan college not connected to wider Kent outbreak
Officials say the risk to the wider student body is very low
Last updated 21st Mar 2026
St John Rigby College has reported that a student has been identified as a suspected meningococcal case, according to guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The college said it understands concerns, particularly given the ongoing situation in Kent.
Officials confirmed that only one suspected case has been identified at the college. Health agencies have completed contact tracing, and there is no known connection to cases in Kent.
The college noted that across England, roughly one case of meningitis is reported each day, and the local situation in Wigan is being managed in the usual way.
All close contacts of the student have been identified and offered antibiotics as a precaution.
No additional students require treatment, and the risk to the wider student body is very low.
The college confirmed that there is no need for students or staff to stay away or change their usual activities.