A meningitis outbreak that began in Kent, England, has now spread to France, health authorities have confirmed. The outbreak has been linked to a nightclub in Canterbury popular with students, and has so far claimed two lives.
The first cases were reported in Kent, where two young people died from the bacterial infection. Private supplies of vaccines in the UK have reportedly run out as demand surged following the outbreak.
French health officials have reported cases of meningitis linked to the same strain, although the exact number of cases in France has not been disclosed. Authorities are working to trace contacts and contain the spread.
The UK Health Security Agency has urged students and young people in affected areas to check their vaccination status and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms such as severe headache, stiff neck, and rash.
