Two people have died and 11 are seriously ill in hospital following an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease at the University of Kent, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed. The outbreak, which combines meningitis and septicaemia, has prompted health officials to provide antibiotics to students in the Canterbury area.
The UKHSA reported 13 cases of the fast-acting disease, which is caused by meningococcal bacteria infecting the fluid around the brain and spinal cord, as well as the bloodstream. Symptoms include rash, sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint and muscle pain, sensitivity to light, cold hands and feet, seizures, confusion, and extreme sleepiness.
One of the deceased was a University of Kent student, the university confirmed, expressing deep sadness. The BBC reported that 11 other young people remain seriously ill in hospital. UKHSA specialists are interviewing families to identify close contacts and arrange antibiotics, though the specific bacterial strain has not been identified.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA south-east deputy director, urged students and staff to remain alert, noting that meningococcal disease can progress rapidly and early signs may be mistaken for a cold, flu, or hangover. “Checking on a friend who goes to bed unwell and seeking medical help could save their life,” she said.
The University of Kent stated it is working closely with public health teams to provide support. Tom Nutt, chief executive of Meningitis Now, highlighted that university students are at increased risk due to close living and socialising conditions, and urged vigilance.
