Morrisons Worker Diagnosed With Meningitis

A Morrisons employee at the supermarket chain’s Sittingbourne Distribution Centre has been diagnosed with meningitis, the company has confirmed.

The worker is receiving medical treatment and Morrisons says it is supporting the staff member while maintaining normal operations at their hub.

A spokesperson said the company told SFM News: “We can confirm that a colleague at our Sittingbourne distribution centre visited Club Chemistry and subsequently contracted meningitis. He is currently receiving treatment and we are in close touch with his family. We are following all government guidance, the site is operating as normal and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely.” 

Public Health England (PHE) was informed and assessed the circumstances. Health officials stressed that meningitis does not spread through casual contact and requires close, sustained exposure—such as living in the same household—for transmission to occur. A PHE representative said staff were “not at any risk,” adding that simply being in the same public space as an infected person is not enough to contract the illness.

According to officials, individuals who had close contact with the employee have been given appropriate information and guidance. They also reiterated that “no special precautions are needed for members of the public.”

The supermarket hub continues to operate as normal and authorities say they will provide further advice only if necessary.

Two people have died in the outbreak here in Kent over the last week, with no further deaths since the last update.

A total of 600 meningitis B vaccines were administered at the University of Kent yesterday (Wednesday 18th March).