Two dead after meningitis and septicaemia outbreak at university

Two people have died after an outbreak of an “invasive” disease causing meningitis and septicaemia at a university.

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

The UKHSA and the NHS are arranging antibiotics for some students at the University of Kent following a number of cases of invasive meningococcal disease although the specific strain has not yet been identified.

Two people are known to have died, the UKHSA said, with the University of Kent confirming that one was a student.

The UKHSA added that specialists are interviewing affected individuals and their families to “help identify all close contacts and arrange antibiotics to limit spread”.

Meningococcal disease, which can include meningitis and septicaemia, is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria.

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.

Anyone can get meningitis but it is most common in babies, children, teenagers and young adults and it can spread very quickly in places such as universities and colleges.

A University of Kent spokesperson 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.”

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.

“Advice and support is being offered to the wider student community, and to local hospitals and NHS 111, and we’re monitoring the situation closely.

“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.”

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.”

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection.

The MenACWY vaccination gives protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10 – and it can be given up to the age of 25 if it has been missed.

However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningitis. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults.