Two dead after outbreak of meningitis and septicaemia at university

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it was alerted to 13 cases showing symptoms consistent with meningitis and septicaemia between Friday and Sunday in the Canterbury area of Kent.

Health officials and the NHS are now arranging precautionary antibiotics for some students at the University of Kent after several cases of invasive meningococcal disease were identified, although the specific strain has not yet been confirmed.

The UKHSA said two deaths had been reported in connection with the outbreak.

A University of Kent spokesman said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that one student from the University of Kent has died following a case of invasive meningitis.

“Our thoughts are with the student’s family, friends and the wider university community at this extremely difficult time.

“The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We are working closely with public health teams and are in touch with staff and students to ensure they get the advice and support they need.”

Meningococcal disease, which can present as meningitis or septicaemia, is a rare but potentially life-threatening infection caused by meningococcal bacteria.

In most cases the bacteria do not cause illness, but in rare instances they can lead to severe conditions such as inflammation of the lining of the brain or blood poisoning, which can quickly develop into sepsis.

Trish Mannes, regional deputy director for the South East at the UKHSA, said the news would be deeply distressing for many within the university community.

She said: “We understand that many people at the university and in the wider community will be affected by this sad news and we would like to offer our condolences to the friends and family involved.”

Ms Mannes acknowledged that students and staff may be concerned about the possibility of further cases but said precautionary steps had already been taken.

Close contacts of those affected have been given antibiotics as a preventative measure, she explained, while advice and support are being provided to the wider student population, local hospitals and NHS 111.

Health officials are continuing to closely monitor the situation.

Ms Mannes warned that meningococcal disease can develop quickly and urged people to be aware of possible symptoms.

These can include fever, headaches, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia may also cause a distinctive rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.

She added that students in particular may miss the early signs of meningitis because symptoms can easily be mistaken for common illnesses such as colds, flu or even the effects of a hangover.

Ms Mannes said it was important that friends check on anyone who goes to bed feeling unwell and seek medical advice if there are concerns.

Contacting a GP or calling NHS 111 promptly if symptoms appear could help save a life, she added.

Tom Nutt, chief executive of Meningitis Now, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of two young people following the reported outbreak of meningitis linked to the University of Kent.

“Meningitis can progress very quickly and its impact is devastating, particularly for young people and their loved ones.

“University students and young adults are among the groups at increased risk because meningitis bacteria can spread more easily in settings where people live, study and socialise closely together.

“We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis.”