Another educational institution has reported a suspected case of meningitis in a student, unrelated to the recent outbreak in Kent. St John Rigby College in Orrell has informed parents and caregivers about a student with a ‘suspected meningococcal case.’
Following the initial outbreak at the University of Kent, which led to two fatalities and was reported to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on March 13, the number of confirmed cases in Kent has decreased from 23 to 20. Additionally, the number of suspected cases under investigation has dropped from 11 to nine, as per official reports.
St John Rigby College in Orrell, Wigan, communicated to families that a student at the college is suspected to have meningococcal infection. The college assured that swift action has been taken, with contact tracing completed and no evident link to the Kent situation.
The college stated, “The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has informed us of a suspected meningococcal case in a student at our college, which may be worrisome given the circumstances in Kent. However, there is only one suspected case here, and health authorities have taken necessary precautions.”
They added, “Close contacts have been identified and offered antibiotics as a preventive measure. The risk to other students is minimal, and there is no disruption required in college activities.”
Meanwhile, in Kent, students queued up to receive vaccinations and antibiotics at the University of Kent campus. The number of meningitis cases associated with the Kent outbreak has decreased, with confirmed cases now at 20, down from 23, according to the UK Health Security Agency.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the challenges faced during the outbreak and commended the efforts of frontline responders in managing and containing the situation.