Two die and 11 seriously ill in meningitis outbreak at University of Kent

"The fast-acting disease is caused by meningococcal bacteria spreading to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which causes meningitis, and infecting the bloodstream, which causes sepsis. The UKHSA said anyone with meningitis and septicaemia symptoms should seek medical help urgently, which could help save lives."

"Symptoms include rashes, a sudden fever, severe headaches, a stiff neck, vomiting and diarrhoea, joint and muscle pain, sensitivity to bright lights, cold hands and feet, seizures, confusion and extreme sleepiness."

"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. 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."

An outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease at the University of Kent has resulted in two deaths and 11 serious hospitalizations among 13 confirmed cases. The UKHSA distributed antibiotics to students in the Canterbury area as a precautionary measure. Invasive meningococcal disease combines meningitis and septicaemia, caused by meningococcal bacteria spreading to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord while infecting the bloodstream. Symptoms include rashes, sudden fever, severe headaches, stiff neck, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint and muscle pain, light sensitivity, cold extremities, seizures, confusion, and extreme sleepiness. The specific disease strain remains unidentified. UKHSA specialists interviewed affected families to identify close contacts. Students face particular risk of missing early warning signs because symptoms resemble common illnesses like colds, flu, or hangovers.

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