Home / Health / Meningitis Spreads: Second Kent University Hit
Meningitis Spreads: Second Kent University Hit
18 Mar
Summary
- Meningitis outbreak reaches a second university in Kent.
- Total cases under investigation in Kent increase to 20.
- Private stock of meningitis B vaccines is unavailable.
The meningitis outbreak has now affected a second university in Kent, with Canterbury Christ Church University confirming a student case linked to the initial cluster from Club Chemistry nightclub events on March 5-7. This development occurs as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports the number of cases under investigation in Kent has risen to 20, with nine confirmed and 11 pending further investigation. Six of the confirmed cases are identified as meningitis B.
The situation has prompted a national incident, with two deaths previously reported, including a grammar school pupil and a University of Kent student. A nine-month-old baby is also in intensive care. The University of Kent has commenced a vaccination program for approximately 5,000 students on its Canterbury campus, in partnership with the UKHSA, alongside distributing antibiotics.
Private availability of meningitis B vaccines is now non-existent, with pharmacies reporting shortages. Experts are investigating if a new strain of meningitis B is responsible for the rapid spread, which has been described as unprecedented. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized that the disease spreads through close personal contact and advised individuals who attended Club Chemistry on specific dates to seek antibiotics. Public health officials are actively managing the situation, with campuses remaining open.
