Meningitis case confirmed at University of Surrey
UKHSA offers advice to students
A case of meningococcal infection, which causes meningitis, has been confirmed among students at the University of Surrey.
Health authorities from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South East are collaborating with the university to provide public health advice and implement preventative measures.
The UKHSA has shared vital information with students to raise awareness about meningitis symptoms.
Preventative antibiotics and vaccinations are being arranged for those who have been in close contact with the affected individual.
Jaime Morgan, Principal Health Protection Lead at UKHSA South East, reassured students and staff about the situation.
"We understand that news of meningococcal infection can be concerning. However meningococcal meningitis requires very close contact to spread and large outbreaks as we saw in Kent recently, are thankfully rare."
The UKHSA is further emphasising the low risk to the public, with Jaime noting: "Meningococcal disease does not spread easily and the risk to the wider public remains low."
Despite there being around 300 to 400 cases annually in England, it often affects babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults.
Morgan stressed the importance of seeking rapid medical attention for symptoms such as fever, headache, neck stiffness, rapid breathing, and shivering.
Advice also highlights the characteristic rash caused by sepsis that does not fade when pressed against a glass.
Young people are encouraged to update their vaccinations, particularly the MenACWY vaccine commonly offered during school years 9 and 10, but still available for free until age 25.
Morgan concluded, reinforcing the importance of recognising symptoms regardless of one’s vaccination status: "It is important for everyone to know the signs and symptoms regardless of vaccination status.”"