A meningitis outbreak linked to a nightclub in Canterbury has led to 29 confirmed or suspected cases, with all patients requiring hospital admission. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported on Friday that 18 cases have been confirmed, 13 of which are caused by the meningitis B strain. More than 9,800 courses of antibiotics and 2,360 vaccines have been administered to eligible people in Kent.
The outbreak is believed to have originated at Club Chemistry, where an estimated 4,800 people attended on 5, 6, or 7 March. Prof Dr Anjan Ghosh, director of public health at Kent County Council, said: 'As more cases are getting known, they all have a back history back to [Club Chemistry].' He attributed the spread to close contact, sharing of vapes and drinks, and intimacy in the club setting.
Tyra Skinner, a 20-year-old student at Canterbury Christ Church University, was admitted to hospital on Monday with severe symptoms including vomiting, headache, stiff neck, and excruciating pain. She had visited Club Chemistry ten days earlier. Her father described her condition as 'horrendous,' adding that she was in a foetal position and unable to move. She is expected to remain in hospital for at least another week.
Two deaths have been linked to the outbreak: Juliette Kenny, an 18-year-old sixth-form pupil, and an unnamed University of Kent student. The UKHSA was notified of the first case on 13 March and issued a public health alert on 15 March. The agency also contacted the club's owner via Instagram to warn customers.
Louise Jones-Roberts, owner of Club Chemistry, said she was initially 'dumbfounded' by the news. She emphasised the need to inform people about symptoms and what to do. Meanwhile, many students had travelled home for Mother's Day, potentially spreading the bacteria further. A case has now been reported in London, prompting a national response.
