A meningitis outbreak at the University of Kent and three schools has resulted in two deaths and 11 hospitalisations, with health officials investigating 13 cases since March 13. The deceased include a University of Kent student and a sixth-former at Queen Elizabeth’s grammar school (QEGS) in Faversham, identified as Juliette. Two other schools, Simon Langton grammar school for boys in Canterbury and Norton Knatchbull school in Ashford, each have a year 13 student in hospital with meningitis.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing its investigation, providing antibiotics to those who may have been in contact with infected individuals. Long queues formed at the University of Kent's Canterbury campus on Monday as students sought antibiotics, with many wearing face masks. The university has moved all assessments due this week online, affecting about 1,700 students, but the campus remains open.
Juliette's headteacher described her as a "kind, thoughtful and intelligent" student who was "a much-loved and treasured member of our school community." Her father told the BBC the family were "beyond devastated." Helen Whately, the MP for Faversham and Mid Kent, expressed shock and sadness, calling the outbreak a "huge shock" and urging the NHS for more information.
Students at the university expressed mixed feelings. Kirab Rhoda, an 18-year-old law and criminology student from Uganda, said she felt reassured by the university's response. Millie Inglis, a 21-year-old law student, described the situation as "very Covid-esque" but emphasised the importance of ensuring everyone's safety. The specific strain of meningitis has not yet been identified.
