A meningitis outbreak at the University of Kent and three schools has resulted in two deaths and 11 hospitalisations, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 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—have confirmed year 13 students hospitalised with meningitis.
The UKHSA reported 13 cases since March 13, including the two fatalities. Long queues formed at the University of Kent’s Canterbury campus on Monday as students sought antibiotics after being contacted by health authorities. The university moved all assessments online for about 1,700 students, though the campus remains open.
Juliette’s headteacher, Amelia McIlroy, described her as “a much-loved and treasured member of our school community,” adding: “She was incredibly kind, thoughtful and intelligent… her humour and positivity were captivating.” Her father told the BBC the family were “beyond devastated.”
Helen Whately, MP for Faversham and Mid Kent, called the outbreak “a huge shock” and said she had spoken to Health Secretary Wes Streeting for urgent guidance. The UKHSA continues to investigate the specific strain of meningitis involved.
