Two students have died after an outbreak of invasive meningitis at the University of Kent, the UK’s Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed.
It is understood that 11 more people are seriously ill and in hospital. The majority are under the age of 21 and are students at the university.
The UKHSA has contacted more than 30,000 students, as well as their families, and staff, to inform them of the emergency.
The UKHSA and the NHS are arranging antibiotics for some students, although the specific strain of the invasive meningococcal disease has not yet been identified.
The UKHSA said “very occasionally” the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, including inflammation of the lining of the brain and blood poisoning, which can rapidly lead to sepsis.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, 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.
“Students and staff will understandably be feeling worried about the risk of further cases; however, we would like to reassure them that close contacts of cases have been given antibiotics as a precautionary measure.
She added: “Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, so it’s essential that students and staff are alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed against a glass.
“Students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs of meningitis because they can be easily confused with other illnesses such as a bad cold, flu or even a hangover.
“That’s why it’s vital that, if a friend goes to bed unwell, you check on them regularly and don’t hesitate to seek medical help by contacting their GP or calling NHS 111 if they have these symptoms or you’re concerned about them. This could save their life.”
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