Meningitis Outbreak in UK: Cases Rise, Students Affected | 2 Deaths

Canterbury, Kent – The number of confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease in the Canterbury area of Kent has risen to 23, with a further 11 cases currently under investigation, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The outbreak has resulted in two fatalities this month: a school pupil and a student at the University of Kent.

Both individuals who died, aged 18 and 21, had recently visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury in early March, prompting a public health response focused on those who attended the venue between March 5th and 15th. Approximately 4,800 people are being urged to receive a vaccination against the B strain of meningococcal disease or take preventative antibiotics.

Health officials state that the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which causes the disease, is carried asymptomatically by around 10% of the population in the nose and throat. However, when the bacteria enters the bloodstream or nervous system, it can become life-threatening, leading to meningitis or septicaemia. University students are considered to be at a higher risk due to their social lifestyles and close contact with a diverse range of individuals.

As of Friday evening, March 20th, over 5,700 vaccinations against meningococcal type B had been administered, and more than 11,000 doses of antibiotics had been distributed by the National Health Service (NHS). Reports indicate significant queues at clinics offering the vaccinations and antibiotics.

The UKHSA has described the outbreak as “unprecedented,” and Health Secretary Wes Streeting has expressed concern over the rapid spread of the disease. Dr. Ben Rush, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at UKHSA, stated that the agency continues to “remain vigilant for new cases and function closely with NHS England and local authorities across the country to ensure enhanced surveillance is in place.”

Authorities believe that nightclubs, where people are in close proximity and engage in activities like kissing, provide ideal conditions for the rapid spread of the bacteria. The head of the local health service has also suggested that sharing drinks and vapes may contribute to increased transmission.

A patient helpline, run by UKHSA, is available for individuals with concerns about potential exposure or general inquiries. The helpline can be reached at 0344 225 3861, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Further details on antibiotic clinic locations and opening times can be found on the Kent and Medway Integrated Care System (ICS) website.

The UKHSA continues to work with partners to identify contacts of confirmed cases and offer necessary treatment. As of 5pm on March 20th, 23 laboratory cases are confirmed and 11 notifications remain under investigation.