The Kenny family has spoken out about their heartbreak following the tragic death of their 18-year-old daughter, Juliette Kenny, amid a meningitis outbreak in Kent. Juliette died on Saturday, March 14, just one day after showing initial symptoms like vomiting and discolouration of her cheeks.
Her father, Michael Kenny, described Juliette as “fit, healthy and strong,” noting she had recently completed her PE A-level practical assessment on March 12. Juliette is one of two students who have tragically died during this meningitis B outbreak in the county.
Mr. Kenny expressed the family’s deep sorrow and urged urgent, lasting changes to prevent other families from enduring similar pain. “No family should experience this agony, and this tragedy can be avoided,” he said.
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More than 100 students in Kent were reportedly turned away after seeking meningitis vaccines when the queue was closed on Thursday, intensifying calls for improved vaccine access.
Mr. Kenny shared a heartfelt statement: “We are proud parents of two wonderful daughters. Juliette was a vibrant force, spreading joy and warmth to all who knew her. Her loss is immeasurable.”
He recounted the swift progression of Juliette’s illness. Late on March 13, she began vomiting, initially without other symptoms. By the morning, a visible discolouration appeared on her cheeks, prompting an emergency visit. After receiving antibiotics, she was rushed by ambulance to A&E, where despite the NHS team’s dedicated care, meningitis took her life in under 12 hours.
“We stayed by her side, and the last sounds she heard were voices of those who loved her, affirming how deeply cherished she was,” Mr. Kenny reflected.
Together with the Meningitis Research Foundation, the family advocates for urgent action to enhance access to the menB vaccine for teenagers and young adults. The menB vaccine—and the government’s current policy—remain a focal point in this debate.
Vinny Smith, CEO of the Meningitis Research Foundation, highlighted that a 2015 proposal to make the menB vaccine routinely available for all at-risk age groups was not adopted, being deemed not cost-effective at the time. Currently, the vaccine is offered on the NHS only to babies, leaving older children and teens vulnerable unless vaccinated privately.
Mr. Smith called on the government to act decisively, emphasizing meningitis’s severe lifelong effects, including disabilities and trauma.
“The 2015 decision failed to capture the full impact of meningitis and the value of vaccine protection. We urge the government to make saving lives a priority now and to protect future generations,” he stated.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported 15 confirmed meningitis cases as of March 15, with 12 more under investigation, totaling 27 suspected or confirmed cases. Nine of the confirmed cases are known to be caused by menB.
In response to this outbreak, vaccination efforts have expanded in Kent, targeting attendees at the Club Chemistry venue, affected school pupils, university students and staff, and close contacts of cases.
A letter signed by 40 MPs addressed to the Health Secretary calls for faster vaccine eligibility reviews and coordinated catch-up vaccination programs at universities.
The Kenny family’s harrowing experience underlines the urgent need for broader vaccine availability and awareness to protect young people from this devastating disease.