British health authorities confirmed Friday that the Bexsero vaccine is effective against the strain of meningococcal bacteria behind a fast-moving outbreak in southeast England that has killed two people and sickened dozens.
The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said early laboratory analysis identified the infections as ST-41/44, a strain of group B meningococcal bacteria that has circulated in the U.K. in recent years.
While the confirmation provides “important reassurance,” UKHSA warned that investigations and monitoring are ongoing.
Authorities have now administered 2,360 vaccinations and distributed roughly 9,840 courses of antibiotics.
As of Thursday evening, 18 cases were confirmed, with 11 others still under investigation. Clinics expanded rapidly on Thursday in response to growing concern, though officials emphasized the outbreak had not yet been contained.
