The number of confirmed and suspected cases of invasive meningococcal disease in Kent, UK, has risen to 34, prompting a continuing vaccination and antibiotic treatment program targeting students and close contacts, health officials announced today.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that 23 cases are now laboratory confirmed, with an additional 11 notifications still under investigation as of 5pm on March 20th. Tragically, two people have died as a result of the outbreak, including an 18-year-ancient woman, Juliette Kenny, and a student at the University of Kent.
Hundreds of students queued for a third consecutive day at a clinic on the University of Kent campus to receive vaccinations. As of yesterday evening, NHS Kent and Medway had administered 5,794 vaccines and distributed 11,010 doses of antibiotics across the county, according to the UKHSA.
Six clinics throughout Kent are currently providing antibiotics and vaccines to eligible individuals. Preventative antibiotics are being offered to close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases, as well as students normally resident on the Canterbury Campus of the University of Kent, including those who have since returned home. Some staff living or working in these halls of residence are also eligible for both antibiotics and vaccination.
The outbreak has been linked to the MenB strain of the bacteria, which causes meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is a serious, though uncommon, illness that can lead to meningitis and sepsis. Transmission requires close and prolonged contact, such as living in the same household or through intimate contact.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced a targeted vaccination program for students in halls of residence at the University of Kent, acknowledging the outbreak as “unprecedented.” The general eligibility for MenB vaccination is also under review, Streeting told the House of Commons.
Dr. Ben Rush, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at UKHSA, stated, “We continue to remain vigilant for new cases and work closely with NHS England and local authorities across the country to ensure enhanced surveillance is in place. Any new cases will be identified quickly and responded to.” He also emphasized the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease and seeking immediate medical attention.
The UKHSA is continuing its investigation and has thanked the NHS and the University of Kent for their support in delivering antibiotics and vaccinations. Initial genetic analysis of the strain is ongoing.
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