Meningitis B strain linked to outbreak in Kent - UKHSA
The strain, known as MenB, is thought to be the most common cause of meningococcal meningitis in the UK
Some cases of meningitis in Kent have been confirmed as the meningitis B strain, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said.
Two people, a Sixth Form pupil and a Kent University student have died and 11 other people are in hospital following an outbreak in the county.
Three schools and Kent University have all confirmed cases, as efforts continue to track and trace thousands of people in the Canterbury area.
Outbreak linked to nightclub
Anyone who visited the nightclub Club Chemistry in Canterbury on March 5, 6 or 7 is being urged to come forward for antibiotics as a “precautionary measure”.
The club’s owner said more than 2,000 people would have attended the club over those dates.
UKHSA advice has also been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, where antibiotics are also being offered to those who need them.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, said: “Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.
“Our investigations have identified that some cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury and it is important that anyone who visited the club between 5th and 7th March now comes forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university – these students are being contacted directly through the university.”
The UKHSA said it acted as soon as it was notified of a cluster of cases.
A UKHSA spokesperson said: “UKHSA was notified of a cluster of cases late on Saturday. We acted immediately and communication to those at risk took place on Saturday evening and Sunday.”
Tributes paid to 'incredibly kind' teenager following death
Amelia McIlroy, the headteacher of Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham, confirmed one of its year 13 pupils had died.
She said: “It is with great sadness that we are confirming the loss of Juliette, a much loved and treasured member of our school community.
“Juliette was a student at our school for seven years. She was incredibly kind, thoughtful and intelligent and she loved our school and was very happy here.
“Juliette embraced everything that school had to offer with great enthusiasm and joy and her humour and positivity were captivating.
“She was a genuinely caring and attentive listener, a true friend – who listened with warmth, respect and sincere interest to her peers and to our staff.
“In short, she was a lovely girl – her beautiful smile, her loving nature and her sense of fun will be hugely missed. We are all devastated.
“Our love and thoughts are with her family and friends at this terribly sad time.”