A meningitis outbreak in Reading has tragically resulted in the death of one young individual, while two others are currently undergoing medical treatment, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed.
Response and Precautions
In response to the outbreak, close contacts of those affected are being offered antibiotics as a precautionary measure. The UKHSA has disseminated information regarding the infection to students and parents at all impacted schools, emphasising that the risk to the broader public remains low.
Details of the Deceased
The deceased individual was a student at Henley College in Oxfordshire, according to a local GP surgery. The Hart Surgery in Henley-on-Thames released a statement expressing their condolences and outlining the situation.
The statement read: "Dear patients. We have been in contact with the UK Health Security Agency this morning (14th May) regarding the very sad news that a student at Henley College has died with suspected meningococcal disease. They have confirmed that they are actively contacting those who may be at risk due to a close association with the student involved. If you have not been contacted by the UK Health Security Agency, then currently you do not require any treatment. Staff and students have been advised they can attend the college as usual. The number of confirmed cases is very low so there are currently no plans for a local emergency meningitis vaccination programme."
Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
