Two die and 11 seriously ill in meningitis outbreak at University of Kent | Meningitis
Two people have reportedly died and 11 remain seriously ill in hospital following an outbreak of a rare form of invasive meningitis at the University of Kent.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said it was providing antibiotics to students in the Canterbury region after 13 cases of invasive meningococcal disease, a combination of meningitis and septicaemia, were identified.
The fast-acting disease occurs when meningococcal bacteria spread to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, causing meningitis, and infect the bloodstream, causing sepsis.
The UKHSA said anyone with symptoms of meningitis and septicemia should seek medical attention urgently, as this could help save lives.
Symptoms include rashes, sudden fever, severe headaches, stiff neck, vomiting and diarrhea, joint and muscle pain, sensitivity to bright lights, cold hands and feet, seizures, confusion, and excessive sleepiness.
The UKHSA confirmed two people had died, while the BBC reported that one of them was a student and 11 others were seriously ill in hospital.
Experts at UKHSA are interviewing families of those affected to identify close contacts and arrange antibiotics. The specific type of the disease has not been determined.
UKHSA south-east deputy director Trish Mannes said: “We understand that many people at the university and the wider community will be affected by this sad news and would like to offer our condolences to the friends and family involved.”
He said close contacts of the cases were given antibiotics “as a precautionary measure.”
“Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, so it is important for students and staff to be alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicemia,” he said.
“Students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs of meningitis because they can easily be confused with other illnesses such as colds, flu or even hangovers.”
He added: “So if a friend goes to bed unwell, it’s vital that you check on them regularly and don’t hesitate to seek medical help. This could save their life.”
The Guardian approached the University of Kent for comment.
