University of Suffolk reassures students after meningitis outbreak
It's as there's an outbreak of the disease in Kent
The University of Suffolk says it has received no reports or concerns about meningitis among its students following an outbreak at another UK university that left one student dead.
The reassurance comes after the University of Kent confirmed a student had died following a case of invasive meningitis, with several others admitted to hospital with meningitis or sepsis believed to be caused by meningococcal bacteria.
Public health teams are working with the university as the situation develops, and close contacts of those affected have been offered preventative antibiotics.
A spokesperson for the University of Suffolk said the institution had shared advice with students and staff after the news emerged.
“Following the tragic news from the University of Kent, we can confirm that the University of Suffolk has not received any reports or concerns about meningitis.
“We have reshared information about the resources and support available to our students and staff should they have any concerns or if they experience any symptoms associated with meningitis.”
Health experts say meningitis is a rare but serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Trevor Reid, from Suffolk, is the Director of Communications at the charity Meningitis Now, said the recent cases had prompted concern across the country.
“Meningitis is quite a rare disease now in the UK, thanks to the vaccine programme which we have here,” he said.
“So it’s quite shocking and really surprising to see so many cases of meningitis in the news today.”
Mr Reid said the cases appear to be clustered around the Kent area, but warned people nationwide were likely to be worried given the seriousness of the disease.
Serious illness
Trevor told us that meningitis can develop rapidly and in severe cases, can lead to sepsis, brain damage, hearing loss, limb loss or death.
“Meningitis can lead very sadly to death… but can also lead to brain damage or blood poisoning,” Mr Reid said.
“It’s really important that people act fast and look out for each other and know the signs and symptoms to watch out for.”
Health officials say symptoms can include high temperature, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, sensitivity to light and a rash.
Anyone whose symptoms are worsening is urged to seek urgent medical help, including by contacting 999 or NHS 111.
“If you know somebody who’s getting sicker than they already are and you notice some of those symptoms, raise the alarm quickly and call 999 or 111,” Mr Reid said.
Surge in concern
Meningitis Now said it had seen a significant rise in people seeking information since the outbreak was reported.
Mr Reid said the charity’s website had experienced a 20% increase in traffic, while its nurse-led helpline had received hundreds of calls from concerned members of the public.
“Our helpline is run by nurses and today it’s been run off its feet by people who are very concerned about meningitis being in the news,” he said.
Vaccination advice
Mr Reid also highlighted the importance of vaccinations in reducing cases of the disease.
Teenagers in England are routinely offered the MenACWY vaccine at school, which protects against several strains of meningococcal disease.
Students preparing to go to university or college are being encouraged to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
“Those vaccines have brought the numbers of meningitis cases down significantly in the UK,” Mr Reid said.
The charity is also calling for wider access to the MenB vaccine for older teenagers, particularly those preparing to move into student accommodation.
Support available
Meningitis Now provides support for people living with the long-term effects of the disease, including financial help, equipment and advice for those returning to work or study.
The charity also runs a nurse-led helpline offering advice to anyone worried about symptoms.
Further information about meningitis and its symptoms can be found on the charity’s website.