Health authorities say the reduction follows the reclassification of some initially confirmed cases after further laboratory testing.
The number of confirmed and suspected meningitis cases linked to the outbreak in Kent has fallen to 29, marking the first decrease since the outbreak began.
This is down from 34 cases previously reported and includes two deaths a 21 year old student at the University of Kent and a sixth form pupil at a local school who died last weekend.
Officials say the overall total includes both confirmed infections and cases still under investigation.
The UK Health Security Agency explained that several cases initially recorded as confirmed were downgraded after additional laboratory results and clinical review.
The agency added that further reassessments are still ongoing, meaning more probable cases could be reclassified in the days ahead.
Out of the latest total, 20 cases have been confirmed in the laboratory, while nine remain under investigation.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the past week as “incredibly difficult” for affected families and frontline health workers, commending efforts to manage the outbreak.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain alert to symptoms, follow health guidance, and seek urgent medical attention where necessary.
According to NHS Kent and Medway, more than 8,000 vaccines have been administered and over 12,000 antibiotic doses distributed as part of the ongoing response.
Officials say the risk to the wider population remains low but stress that surveillance and containment measures will continue as concerns persist about potential spread beyond the county.
Goodness Anunobi
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