An “invasive” disease outbreak causing meningitis and septicaemia has resulted in the deaths of two individuals at a university. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported 13 cases with meningitis and septicaemia symptoms in the Canterbury area of Kent over the weekend.
Following multiple instances of invasive meningococcal disease at the University of Kent, the UKHSA and NHS are coordinating antibiotics for certain students. The specific strain responsible for the outbreak is yet to be identified.
The UKHSA confirmed that two people have died, with one being a student at the University of Kent. Meningitis is an infection affecting the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, more commonly seen in babies, children, teenagers, and young adults.
Symptoms of the disease include high temperature, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, drowsiness, confusion, and seizures. Meningitis is typically caused by bacterial or viral infections, with bacterial meningitis being more severe than viral forms.
Infections leading to meningitis can spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact like kissing. If left untreated, meningitis can escalate to sepsis, brain or nerve damage, hearing loss, or fatality. Long-term effects of bacterial meningitis may include hearing or vision impairment, memory issues, seizures, or limb loss.
Prompt treatment, which often involves hospitalization for at least a week, with antibiotics and intravenous fluids, is crucial for recovery. The NHS estimates a fatality rate of up to one in ten cases of bacterial meningitis.
Vaccines like MenB, 6-in-1, pneumococcal, MMRV for babies and children, and MenACWY for teenagers and university students are available. Immediate medical attention is advised for suspected cases of meningitis or sepsis, as these conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
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