Two dead and 11 infected from ‘invasive’ meningitis outbreak
Two people have died, one of them a University of Kent student
Two people have died and a further 11 confirmed infected from an outbreak of meningitis and septicaemia at the University of Kent.
The university confirmed that one of the people who died was a student, and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it had been notified of 13 cases in total.
Antibiotics have been arranged for students in the area to limit the spread of the sickness, though the specific strain of invasive meningococcal disease has not yet been confirmed.
Meningococcal disease, which can include meningitis and septicaemia, is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria which the UKHSA says can 'very occasionally' cause serious illness such as inflammation of the lining of the brain or blood poisoning leading to sepsis.
According to the BBC, both of the people who have died are believed to be aged between 18 and 21.
Meningitis is most common in young people, anyone can get it but it can spread quickly in a location such as a university campus.
A spokesperson for the University of Kent 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."
The UKHSA said it was important for people in the area to be aware of the symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which included a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet.
Someone with septicaemia may also get a rash which did not fade when pressed against a glass.
Trish Mannes of the UKHSA warned that students in particular might mistake the early signs of these illnesses as something else far less serious 'such as a bad cold, flu or even a hangover'.
She said: "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, warned that 'meningitis bacteria can spread more easily in settings where people live, study and socialise closely together' which put students at a particular risk of the disease spreading.
The families affected are being interviewed by the UKHSA to 'help identify all close contacts and arrange antibiotics to limit spread'.
Featured Image Credit: PA
Joe Harker